Applying for small business grants

Finding Australian Government grants to support your small business

Running a small business takes time, money and energy. Being focused on customers, staff and day-to-day management, you may be missing out on grants and programs that could give your business that extra support. Small business grants can help firms grow skills, jobs and markets.

The Australian Government offers a wide range of funding options for small businesses. There are funding paths for growth, subsidies, training and projects across many sectors. Small business grants may fund equipment, training or capability work. With the right plan, small business grants can support long-term growth.

The challenge is not about whether funding is available. It’s about how to find grants, check if you’re eligible, and prepare a strong application.

What we’ll cover

• Starting your search
• Tips for grant success
• Get expert help

Starting your search for small business grants and programs

The Australian Government's Grants and Programs Finder is a free online tool. It lets you filter results by industry, sector and region. You can also search by location to find grants in your state.

You can discover extra support for primary producers and key industries such as health, arts, science, energy, or even medical research future fund projects. If you’re interested, you can visit the site run by the relevant department. They should have the full details you need before applying.

Tips for grant success

Before you apply, check every detail of the grant opportunity. Look at the terms, tax benefits, and type of support programs included. There may be conditions too.

Here are some tips to help with your application:

1. Check eligibility first

• Confirm your registered business meets all requirements
• Gather financial statements, business plans, and cash flow projections

2. Build a strong case

• Align your project with grant objectives and show measurable outcomes
• Highlight community benefits and include expert endorsements
• Demonstrate competitive advantage

3. Budget clearly

• Be clear on funding needs, subsidies, and expected revenue
• Break down how your firm will manage the costs

4. Write effectively

• Focus on quality over quantity, avoid repetition, and use simple language 
• Explain expected outcomes and benefits, like jobs, training or reduced energy use
• Use credible data, show stakeholder consultation, and include required evidence

5. Meet deadlines

• Mark dates early and set internal deadlines well before cut-offs
• Start gathering documents early to account for review and approval times

6. Get expert help

• Mentoring and professional help can improve your success rate
• Consider engaging business advisers, accountants, or specialist grant consultants who understand the application process
• Check out the Australian Government’s free advice services for small firms

Need a hand?

If you want extra support, our partner Lawpath is ready to help. They offer customisable legal documents and business plan templates. They can also connect you with lawyers experienced in government grants. The right resources and advice can give you that extra boost of confidence when you apply.

For example, the Grid Enhancing Technologies Program provides a funding stream that supports new ideas and business growth. This targeted program shows how grants can help small businesses in key industries. It’s a way to develop new capability, access training, and grow revenue. On the other hand, voucher programs may give businesses access to specialist services or tools that support another area of growth.

Applying for small business grants can be stressful. You need to check if you’re eligible, prepare evidence, and show how your idea helps your industry. Whether you’re a sole trader, part of primary industries, or in arts, health or science, you don’t need to do it alone.