Applications have opened for the Queensland Government’s Agribusiness Digital Solutions Grant Program, which will help agribusiness recover from COVID-19 through digital transformation.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner, said $1.2 million is available for industry organisations in round one of the Agribusiness Digital Solutions Grant Program.
“The Palaszczuk Government knows the significance of agriculture to the State’s economy and recognises the sector is well positioned to play a leading role as we implement Queensland’s $8 billion plan for economic recovery,” Mr Furner said.
“We are providing $5.5 million for the digital transformation of agribusiness as part of stage two economic recovery initiatives.
“This initiative aims to enhance digital skills, drive business efficiencies and create regional jobs across Queensland.”
Mr Furner said accelerating digital transformation from farm to plate will create a resilient and profitable agribusiness sector.
“Technology and innovation has been identified as a key priority to position the Queensland agribusiness and food sector to address challenges and capitalise on opportunities in response to COVID-19,” Mr Furner said.
“Adopting digital solutions, such as the internet of things, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, blockchain, big data and advanced robotics has the ability to transform the sector.
“These technologies are developing quickly and changing the systems of production, management and governance across agribusiness and food supply chains.”
Applications for first round funding under the Agribusiness Digital Solutions Grant Program are open from 29 September to 1 November 2020.
Industry organisations can apply for up to $200,000 (excluding GST) as a co-contribution to be matched by applicants for projects that target industry-wide outcomes. Cash contributions of at least 20 per cent of the value of funding sought is required for all projects.
