
Thousands of small businesses have been badly affected due to coronavirus in recent times. Business restrictions and shutdowns announced by the government have made it difficult for business owners to carry on with their activities in a normal manner. To help and support such businesses, the Australian Government has announced several grants and assistance programs to help them go digital and operate safely.
Covid-19 Adaptation Program
This is a wonderful initiative by the Queensland Government, under which $100 million has been set aside for small businesses impacted by Covid-19 to go digital. First round of the program was set for businesses in urban areas, while the 2nd round is for businesses based in regional areas of the state. Businesses are being helped to go online so that they can continue operations and also sustain employees. Minimum amount being disbursed under this program is $2,000 while eligible businesses can claim up to $10,000.
Eligibility Criteria
- Your business must have suffered a decline of at least 30% on account of restrictions imposed by government shutdowns on 23 March 2020
- You must have fewer than 20 employees
- Your business must have ABN
- Must be based in state funding the grant
- Must be registered under GST
- Annual turnover of the business should be over $75,000 for the last financial year

Incubator Support
If you have a business idea and want to make a mobile application to turn this idea into reality, government of Australia helps you with its Incubator Support grant. Under this scheme, government provides financial support to start ups and existing companies to take their apps to global markets. Incubator Support is an ongoing program and eligible candidates can apply for this grant any time of the year. Successful businesses receive a financial assistance of $13,000 to $250,000 for a period of two years. Funding under this scheme covers up to 65% of the cost of the project in regional areas and up to 50% in major cities of Australia.
Eligibility criterions
- Your business must have ABN
- It must be based in Australia
- Your project should have a value of at least $26,000 if it is in a major city
Help in Transforming Your Business from Physical to Digital
Covid-19 has taught a very important lesson and that is to do your business on the web as well. Government of Victoria is providing all help and support to businesses badly affected by Covid-19 in their digital transformation. You will get invaluable advice on whether your business is digital ready and if yes, then how to make possible a smooth transition from physical to digital business. You will learn everything about the tools and software you need for doing your business online and also learn how to take payments online in a safe and secure manner. A digital expert will teach you how to market your products and services. They will also tell you how to interact with potential customers on social media and establish your product as a brand.
Above mentioned are only some of the many grants and assistance programs sponsored by the Australian state and Federal governments to encourage small businesses willing to go digital. To know more about such grants, please speak to one of our advisors at the number below.