AMCRC launches AUD $3.25m STARTER funding program for SMEs
Matched grants aim to bring more small manufacturers and start-ups into additive manufacturing research
The Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC) has launched a AUD $3.25 million (US $2.21m) funding initiative on July 1, 2026, aimed at helping small and medium-sized Australian manufacturers and start-ups explore additive manufacturing applications
The STARTER Project Funding Program offers dollar-for-dollar matched funding and access to AMCRC’s research network, supporting industry-led projects that run between three months and one year. Eligible areas include redesigning products, rapid prototyping, on-demand manufacturing, supply chain improvements and sustainability initiatives.
Businesses can apply for co-funding of between $20,000 and $75,000 (US $13,600 and $51,000), matched equally by the applicant, supporting total project values of $40,000 to $150,000 (US $27,200 to $102,000). Successful applicants will work with AMCRC’s national research network on projects aimed at measurable commercial and operational results.
The program is targeted at SMEs, which make up around 95% of Australia’s manufacturing businesses but have often faced obstacles to joining larger collaborative research programs due to limited resources and funding capacity, according to AMCRC.
Matched funding lowers barrier to entry
Simon Marriott, AMCRC’s managing director, said the program was designed to let businesses test additive manufacturing applications without the scale, cost or complexity of larger research projects.
“Many SMEs and start-ups recognise the potential of additive manufacturing, but they don’t always know where to begin or have the capability to assess where it can create value for their business,” Marriott said.
“The STARTER Project Funding Program gives businesses a practical pathway to work alongside researchers, test ideas and evaluate how additive manufacturing can improve efficiency, flexibility and competitiveness.”
Applications open ahead of July info session
Marriott described additive manufacturing as an increasingly strategic capability for manufacturers rather than solely a production method.
“Businesses are using additive manufacturing to reduce lead times, overcome production bottlenecks, improve supply chain resilience and bring new products to market faster,” he said.
“This program is about helping Australian companies explore those opportunities in a practical, commercially focused way.”
Applications for the STARTER Project Funding Program are now open. AMCRC will hold an online information session on July 15, 2026, at 1 p.m. AEST to outline eligibility requirements and the application process, with registration available through the AMCRC website.
