The EMDG program has been updated from Round 4 onwards to better meet the needs of exporters. The program aims to aid eligible Australian businesses in marketing, promotions, and training to boost their export efforts. It provides crucial support as businesses begin and grow their fashion exporting activities. 

New changes mean bigger grants, but not every applicant will receive a grant. EMDG funding is limited. They expect to receive a large volume of applications.

Due to the program changes:

• Some businesses and representative bodies who previously received EMDG grants will no longer be eligible.
• Some applicants who are eligible and apply will not receive grants. This is because funds may be fully allocated before we receive their application or before we assess it. This could be the outcome even if they submitted before applications closed.

Your SME business may be eligible in one of these tiers:

• Tier 1 – ready to export
• Tier 2 – exporting within existing markets
• Tier 3 – exporting to new key markets.

KEY CHANGES MADE

1. Larger Grant Amounts and Greater Clarity 

Maximum grant amounts are now set for each tier and are disclosed in advance. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted, and rounds will close once the available funding is allocated. This ensures clarity for businesses and aligns with other Commonwealth grant programs.

2. Improved Eligibility Criteria for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s)

Updated to better align with successful exporters' profiles. Key requirements include:

• Minimum Turnover: Specific annual business turnover required per grant tier.
• Marketing Spend: Businesses must invest at least $20,000 of their own funds in marketing and promotional activities, excluding the grant amount.
• Business Duration: Minimum of 2 years in business with the same ABN.
• Tier 1 Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate readiness to export through approved training or testing.
• Grant Duration: Businesses can receive EMDG grants for up to 8 financial years, with new limits.

3. Better Support for businesses

Potential to provide grants that target specific markets for different grant tiers. 

Read More Here if you are interested in applying. 

Deadline: 

APPLY through the EMDG online portal. Starting from Round 4, applications will be assessed in the order they are received. While the updated program offers larger grants, please note that limited funding means not all applicants will receive support.

Tier 1 – ready to export, applications open AEDT 10am on 12 November

Tier 2 – exporting within existing markets, applications open AEDT 10am on 12 November

Tier 3 – exporting to new key markets, applications open AEDT 10am on 12 November.