Austrade has released the guidelines for Round 4 of the Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) for the FY26 period, opening for Applications in early November 2024. The revised program includes grant amounts up to $80,000 annually.
If you have claimed EMDG in the past or are planning to apply for FY26, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with these significant changes as they may impact your eligibility and the amount of funds you may be entitled to under the program.
Key Changes in Eligibility Criteria:
- Operational Requirement: To be eligible, your business must have been operating under the same ABN for at least 2 years.
- Minimum Annual Turnover Requirements (based on 2023/24 figures):
- Tier 1: $100,000 – For applicants who have never exported before and are looking to start exporting.
- Tier 2: $500,000 – For businesses currently exporting to a specific market, with no plans to expand to new markets or demographics.
- Tier 3: $1,000,000 – For businesses aiming to export to a new market or demographic.
- Please note that the maximum turnover of the company cannot exceed $20 million.
- Priority Markets for Tier 3 Applicants:
- In line with Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, Austrade has prioritised certain markets under the EMDG program. If you are a Tier 3 applicant, your export activities must target one of the following eligible markets below, provided you have not already exported to these markets:
Bangladesh, India, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, South Korea, Cambodia, Italy, Taiwan, Canada, Japan, Thailand, China, Laos, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, France, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Papua New Guinea, United States, Hong Kong, Philippines, Vietnam.
Application Assessment Process:
- Applications will be assessed in the order they are received. It is essential to submit your application as soon as possible – once the grant funds for a particular Tier are fully allocated, the opportunity will close.
- Even if you meet all eligibility criteria and submit your application before the official closing date, there is a possibility that funds may be fully allocated before your application is assessed. In such cases, you may not receive the grant.
How The Gild Group Can Assist You:
Navigating the EMDG application process can be complex, particularly with the recent changes to eligibility. The Gild Group’s R&D Incentives & Grants team is here to support your business at every stage of this journey.
From assessing your eligibility under the new guidelines to meticulously preparing and submitting your application (as close to the opening date as possible), we provide comprehensive support.
Our team will also manage any reviews or feedback from Austrade, ensuring that your application is as strong as possible.
Beyond the application process, we offer holistic advice to align your grant strategy with your broader business objectives, maximising the potential for growth in international markets.
What You Need to Do Next:
- Review your eligibility: Assess whether your business meets the new criteria.
- Prepare early: Start gathering the necessary documentation and information now.
- Reach out to us: Connect with The Gild Group’s R&D Incentives & Grants team for expert guidance and personalised support throughout the entire EMDG process.
Ensure your business remains competitive in the global market by staying on top of these changes and leveraging our expertise to optimise your EMDG application and funding opportunities.
