The Federal Government has moved to help small and medium-sized businesses in Page reach their export potential with a $50 million boost to the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme.
Federal member for Page Kevin Hogan said the Government was also seeking to enhance the way the EMDG scheme is administered after it was cut by $25 million a year by the previous Labor government. New legislation has been introduced into the parliament to give effect to the changes which will also make the scheme more accessible to businesses looking to export.
“For example businesses looking to pursue their first export sales will now be eligible for a $5000 grant if they spend $15,000 on export promotion, whereas previously they would have received nothing. Previously, they had to spend a minimum of $20,000 to be eligible,” Mr Hogan said.
“Established exporters would also now be eligible for up to eight grants under the program whereas previously the maximum number was seven.
“These grants assist small and medium sized businesses to enter new export markets and become self-sustaining exporters and employers.
“We want to make Australia one of the best places to start and grow a business and these grants help in that pursuit.”
Mr Hogan said the Government was delivering on its election promises by driving growth and innovation.
“The improvements the Coalition is making will benefit many small business exporters in regional areas,” he said.
“Local businesses like Yamba-based Connor Opal Mining, which received $24,500 last financial year, and Lindendale-based Mountain Blue Orchids, which received $7000, are already benefiting from the program.
“Export markets are our future and these grants will help small businesses access markets they may not have though possible.”
