EMDG Update

January 2012

	Applications for EMDG Are Now Closed. Applications for EMDG open on 1 July. The 2011-12 grant year application form will be available for download mid-May 2012 and the 2011-12 grant year schedules will be available for download in mid-May 2012 in MS Excel format (.xls). Make sure that your completed application form, along with any relevant schedules and supporting documentation is received by Austrade by close of business on 30 November 2012. By law Austrade cannot accept late applications.
	Application tips Go to a coaching session. Download now the application form and schedules and read them carefully. Read the important information about EMDG scheme changes. Download and read ‘A Guide to Applying for EMDG’ to help you prepare your application. Call your local EMDG office to clarify any issues. Lodge your application before 30 September for faster payment.
	Important EMDG scheme changes A number of changes to the EMDG Scheme are now in place, these changes have been implemented to extend the life of the EMDG scheme and better balance the cost of the scheme to its budget. Some of the changes include reducing the number of grants from eight to seven for individual recipients and increasing the minimum expenses threshold from $10,000 to $20,000. For the complete list of changes and more information visit the EMDG website.
	Coaching sessions EMDG is running free information seminars to help you prepare your application and learn how to get the best out of the EMDG scheme. Whilst some seminars have already been held, you can still catch some from September to November in selected locations around Australia. Visit the EMDG website to reserve your place at a seminar near you.
	EMDG industry fact sheets If you require specific information on what rules apply to each industry under the EMDG scheme, visit the EMDG Publications section. You will find Industry specific fact sheets which provide invaluable information for exporters who wish to apply for an EMDG grant. These fact sheets also show examples of successful exporters that were assisted by EMDG with their overseas marketing efforts.
	EMDG assists Comscentre From their humble beginnings in 2002 Comscentre, an Internet Protocol (IP) communications services company, has expanded to the major Australian capital cities. Recently with the assistance of the EMDG scheme, the company, has secured a key overseas market establishing an operation base in Asia. Not surprisingly, Comscentre has been ranked by BRW as Australia’s 10th fastest growing company. Read more on this story.
	More help for SMEs to go global Need help with expanding your business in global markets? The Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (EFIC) can help. EFIC offers flexibility to help smaller exporters grow globally and establish international supply and distribution chains.
	Explore Export Update If you’re an exporter or exploring the export market make sure you are equipped with the latest export news, industry information and country trends, by subscribing to Austrade's Export Update monthly newsletter. Discover networking opportunities at the industry events, seminars and missions, and be inspired by the success stories of Australian businesses that have become internationally competitive.