Queensland's New Science and Innovation Strategy: What It Means for your Business



The Queensland Government has released a new 15-year plan to help turn local research and good ideas into real businesses, jobs and investment - and there's good news for local innovators along the way.

Unveiled during National Science Week, the Ideas into Impact strategy is designed to make it easier for Queensland researchers, startups and entrepreneurs to connect with the investors, industry partners and expertise they need to bring their ideas to market. For our members working in tech, science, health and innovation-driven industries, this could mean a clearer path from concept to commercial success.

What's changing

A few of the new initiatives are worth keeping an eye on:

  • Q Futures Conference - a new annual event bringing together Queensland's science and innovation community to build partnerships and showcase local capability.
  • Science and Innovation Connector Service - a new service to help innovators and businesses navigate the system and find the right support.
  • Office of Commercialisation - a dedicated function to help move research and intellectual property through to real commercial outcomes.
  • Ministerial Science and Innovation Advisory Council - a new body bringing industry, research and government leaders together to shape priorities.

The government has also committed an additional $22 million to support the shift from research to commercial success.

STEM Engagement Grants now open

Alongside the strategy, the Queensland Government has launched the STEM Engagement Grants Program, offering grants of up to $25,000 to support events, projects and activities that get more people involved in science, technology, engineering and maths. 

This is a great opportunity for schools, community groups and local organisations to run hands-on STEM experiences right here on the northside.

Applications are open now and close on Tuesday 29 September. Full guidelines are available at science.qld.gov.au/engaging-queenslanders/stem-engagement-grants.

Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the strategy was about building a clear pathway so Queensland becomes "a place where they become successful businesses and create jobs."

Why this matters for BNCC members

Brisbane North is home to a growing number of businesses working in and supporting STEM fields - something we saw firsthand at our recent STEM Business Showcase. Initiatives like this strategy and the new grants program open up fresh opportunities for our members to connect with funding, partnerships and platforms to grow.

For more information on the full strategy, visit www.qld.gov.au/scienceandinnovation.