Transcript: The Asian Century Business Engagement Plan
Welcome to the Asian Century
Over the past 50 years Australia’s trade with Asia has risen dramatically.
After a couple of centuries enduring the tyranny of distance, we now find ourselves in the right place, at the right time.
The right place to build business opportunities.
The right time to strengthen relationships with the world’s largest middle class.
Responding to this global change, the Australian Government has a plan.
Namely, the Asian Century Business Engagement Plan.
It’s just one of many initiatives contained within the Government’s White Paper ‘Australia in the Asian Century.’
The objective of the ACBE Plan is to improve our business links with Asia.
It offers merit based, competitive grants.
The total funding is $1.5 million each year from 2013.
Ok so that’s the big picture - after consultation with industry, here’s the detail:
To be eligible applicants need to be an Australian member-based organisation.
Individual firms cannot apply directly.
25 markets across Asia are eligible.
There are 2 funding streams:
Stream A: $20,000 to $100,000 for one year OR
Stream B: $100,000 to $300,000 over 1-3 years.
The ACBE Plan will fund up to a maximum of 50% of the total cost, with the remaining 50% funded by the applicant.
Offshore based organisations can apply, if they are appropriately registered.
What kind of applications are we looking for?
Well, applications for NEW and INNOVATIVE projects are two key words that get us excited.
Ideally, we’re looking for projects that wouldn’t happen without a grant.
Projects that develop new relationships, enhance our links with Asia and build awareness and greater understanding are encouraged.
More information including grant guidelines and submission forms are on the Austrade website austrade.gov.au. Applications close in April.
The Asian Century Business Engagement Plan.
Time to do business.
More information
The Asian Century Business Engagement (ACBE) plan will run from 1 July 2013.
More information on the ACBE