Four Australian scaleups developing sovereign technologies in space, clean energy, defence and robotics have secured a combined $16 million in early-stage commercialisation funding under the federal government’s Industry Growth Program.
The grants, delivered through the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, are aimed at accelerating high-potential companies through the commercialisation pipeline, supporting efforts to take novel technologies from prototype to product.
Gold Coast-based rocket manufacturer Gilmour Space Technologies, which has recently conducted its third attempt at launching its first orbital rocket, secured $5.5 million to support the development of essential onboard systems for future missions.
The company is on the path to being the first orbital launch from Australian soil in more than 50 years, with development of its three-stage Eris orbital rocket years in the making.
The IGP grant funding will be used to accelerate the development of its locally developed large-scale liquid rocket engine and associated ground systems.
Clean energy innovator Endua, headquartered in Brisbane, was awarded $5.37 million to bring its hydrogen-based microgrid energy storage solution to market.
The modular system is designed to replace diesel generators in off-grid locations, offering long-duration clean energy storage for regional and remote communities.
3ME Technologies, based in the NSW Hunter region, received $3.29 million to support the commercial rollout of its heavy-duty lithium-ion battery systems for use in underground mining and military vehicles.
The company’s batteries are engineered for high safety and performance in harsh environments, advancing electrification efforts in traditionally diesel-reliant sectors.
Newcastle’s MLB Industrial secured $1.86 million to advance a new generation of Australian-made mobile robotic platforms for industrial and defence applications.
The funding will accelerate the company’s efforts to bring sovereign autonomous vehicle solutions to market, supporting productivity and resilience in manufacturing and logistics.
The grants require matched co-investment and align with the National Reconstruction Fund’s focus on building sovereign capability across critical industries.
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