Oct 21, 2011 |
$10m to grow Victoria's small technologies
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(Nanowerk News) Minister for Technology Gordon Rich-Phillips has announced a $10 million plan to support
Victorian industry to improve productivity through the use of small technologies.
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Speaking at an event hosted by Melbourne's scientific leaders and the Australian Academy of
Science tonight, Mr Rich-Phillips said the plan was part of the Victorian Coalition Government's
approach to supporting technology and commitment to driving productivity growth in new ways.
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"Our vision for the future is to bring together the transformative power of the major technology
platforms – biotechnology, ICT and small technologies – to unleash greater innovation and wider
economic benefits," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
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"In the future, we expect to see small technologies have an impact on almost every industry in
Victoria, improving the functionality of products, improving energy efficiency in manufacturing,
reducing costs and enabling more efficient use of resources.
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"The Coalition Government is providing $10 million to support Victorian businesses to take
advantage of the opportunities offered by small technologies and the breakthroughs they are
generating," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
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One of the key programs of the small technologies plan is the continuation of the Small
Technologies Industry Uptake Program, linking industry partners seeking solutions with leadingedge
providers of small technologies know-how.
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The program aims to improve productivity, sustainability and health, by supporting companies
exploring innovative solutions using small technologies.
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Applications for 2012 Small Technologies Trial Vouchers – of up to $250,000 – opened today and
will close on 18 November 2011. The Trial Vouchers may be used to trial existing small
technology-based innovations, such as developing prototypes or conducting pilot-scale trials, or to
improve existing products or processes through the adoption or integration of small technologies.
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"It is this approach which will not only propel results within the technologies sector but also enable
growth, productivity and competitiveness in other industries," Mr Rich-Phillips said.
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