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$10m to grow Victoria's small technologies
(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.
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.
"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.
"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.
"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.
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.
The program aims to improve productivity, sustainability and health, by supporting companies exploring innovative solutions using small technologies.
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.
"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.
Source: Business Victoria