Growing a startup takes vision, grit—and funding. In 2025, there are more grants and programs than ever to help Australian startups scale. But with so many options, how do you know where to start?

Some grants require matched funding, which can be a barrier for early‑stage founders. Others offer equity‑free, no‑match support, making them ideal for businesses still finding their feet.

At Straight Up, we’ve guided countless startups through this landscape, helping them secure the right funding at the right time. Here’s our updated guide to the top opportunities you should know about this year.

Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) Ignite and Innovate

For startups built around research commercialisation, AEA grants are a game changer.

• Ignite: Up to $500,000 for proof‑of‑concept (TRL 3–5)

• Innovate: Up to $5 million for proof‑of‑scale (TRL 5–7)

These programs require strong alignment with National Reconstruction Fund priority areas and collaboration with an Australian university. While co‑investment from industry strengthens your case, these grants do not require a matched cash component from startups themselves.

👉 Applications for Round 2 close soon—act early.

Accelerating Commercialisation Grants

The Accelerating Commercialisation (AC) program offers up to $1 million in matched funding to help businesses bring new products or services to market. This one does require matching funds, so it’s more suited to businesses ready to scale.

If your startup has a strong commercialisation plan and early traction, AC remains one of the most powerful funding pathways in Australia.

CSIRO Kick‑Start

The CSIRO Kick‑Start program is perfect for early‑stage startups needing R&D expertise.

• Grants of $10,000–$50,000

• Supports proof‑of‑concept and feasibility work

• Co‑funding is encouraged, but no strict matched cash is required

Working with CSIRO researchers also gives you technical validation—a bonus when seeking follow‑on investment.

Boosting Female Founders Initiative

For female‑led startups, the Boosting Female Founders Initiative offers between $25,000 and $400,000 to help businesses scale.

Unlike many programs, no matched cash funding is required. Instead, the program focuses on business potential, leadership capability and the quality of the growth plan.

State‑based innovation grants

Each state offers its own mix of funding, and many do not require matched cash—making them more accessible to early‑stage ventures.

Examples include:

• Seed‑Start Program (South Australia) – early‑stage funding for high‑growth potential startups

• LaunchVic programs (Victoria) – support for tech founders and accelerators

• Ignite Ideas Fund (Queensland) – up to $200,000 for innovative products and services

• NSW MVP grants – support to test and validate ideas

These schemes are competitive, but well worth pursuing.

Council and industry‑led grants

Local councils and industry organisations also run small grant rounds ($10K–$50K) to support entrepreneurship, creative industries and early‑stage innovation. They often have low barriers to entry and no match requirements. Check your local networks for current opportunities.

Angel networks and venture capital

While not grants, angel investors and VC funds remain a strong pathway for capital injection. They don’t require matched funding, but they do take equity. To attract them, you’ll need a clear value proposition and early proof points.

How to maximise your chances

With so many programs available, the challenge isn’t just applying—it’s applying well.

Successful applications:

• Clearly align with the funder’s objectives

• Present a realistic, well‑planned budget

• Demonstrate strong leadership and capability

• Tell a compelling story of impact and growth potential

• Ensure strict compliance with all grant requirements—from eligibility criteria to document formatting. Even small non‑compliances (like missing attachments or exceeding word limits) can sink an otherwise strong application.

How Straight Up can help

We understand the funding landscape—and how to navigate it. Whether you’re applying for a no‑match seed grant or a multi‑million‑dollar innovation program, we help you:

• Identify the best-fit opportunities

• Position your startup for success

• Craft proposals reviewers want to fund

Our clients don’t just submit applications—they submit winning strategies.

Final thoughts

2025 offers incredible opportunities for startups—but only if you take action. Whether you need guidance choosing the right grant or expert support in preparing your application, Straight Up is here to help.

👉 Book a consultation and let’s get your startup funded.