Regional businesses with a great idea, a clever use of technology or an innovative way of doing things are being encouraged to put their hand up for a share of $125,000 through the 2026 Innovate with nbn® Grants Program.
Now in its seventh year, the program celebrates regional businesses using the nbn® network to innovate, improve productivity and create positive economic and social outcomes within their communities.
Delivered in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute, Innovate with nbn® is all about recognising the ideas, resilience and ingenuity that are so often found in regional Australia.
And, as we know across our own region, some of the best ideas don’t necessarily come from the big cities.
This year there are seven grant categories covering AgTech and Environment; Arts, Culture & Tourism; Education; First Nations Business; Health and Wellbeing; Women in Regional Business; and the newly introduced Innovation for Productivity category.
Each category winner will receive $15,000, with one of those successful businesses also named the overall 2026 Innovate with nbn® Champion and receiving an additional $20,000.
That is a significant opportunity for a regional business with an idea ready to take its next step.
The grants are designed for businesses using connectivity and digital technology to solve problems, work smarter, reach new markets or make a meaningful difference within their community.
Importantly, businesses that have applied to the program in previous years but weren’t successful are being encouraged to have another go.
For businesses across the Central West and Mid West, this could be the perfect opportunity to take an idea that’s been sitting on the drawing board and give it the backing it needs.
Applications are already open, but don’t leave it sitting on the “I’ll get to that later” pile — applications close at midnight on Monday, 12 October 2026.
Full eligibility details, category information and applications are available through the Innovate with nbn® Grants Program website www.nbnco.com.au/campaigns/innovate-with-nbn-grants-program.
