A new industry partnership led by Griffith Business School and the Advanced Design and Prototyping Technologies Institute (ADaPT) is set to accelerate innovation among Gold Coast small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), following a $25,000 sponsorship from Community Bank Paradise Point (Bendigo Bank).
The funding underpins the launch of the SME Boost Innovation Voucher, a pilot initiative designed to help local businesses turn innovative ideas into practical outcomes through collaboration with Griffith University researchers, facilities and students.
The initiative will provide up to 5 SMEs with vouchers of up to $5,000 to undertake short-term, high-impact projects, as well as providing access to advanced prototyping and testing facilities, technical research expertise and student capability.
Griffith Business School’s Professor Naomi Birdthistle brings together her deep academic expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and strong regional networks to support the participating businesses through innovation, commercialisation and market-focused guidance.
Professor Birdthistle said the partnership highlights the value of combining engineering capability with business innovation expertise.
“The SME Boost Innovation Voucher is about igniting ideas and creating real impact for SMEs on the Gold Coast. By connecting businesses with Griffith University’s expertise and facilities, we’re building a stronger, more innovative local economy.”
Eligible activities under the voucher scheme include product or service prototyping, material and product testing, feasibility studies, and market validation. Projects will typically run for three to six months, with clearly defined deliverables and light-touch project management to keep collaborations focused and outcomes-driven.
Professor Stefanie Feih, Director of ADaPT, said the scheme was designed to make university collaboration more accessible and impactful for local industry.
“We know many SMEs have strong ideas but limited capacity to engage in R&D. This program provides practical access to facilities, expertise and student talent so businesses can test concepts, refine products and build resilience through innovation,” Professor Feih said.
SME Boost Innovation Voucher Details
- Funding Available: Up to $5,000 per project
- Project Duration: 3–6 months
- Applications Open: Monday, 16 February
- Closing Date of Round One: Friday, 13 March 2026
Apply Online: SME Boost Innovation Voucher.
