The Federal Government is urging small businesses – including beauty salons – to help develop innovative solutions to address the environmental challenges through the latest round of Business Research and Innovation (BRII) grants.
Karen Andrews, the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, has announced that $12 million will be made available through the initiative, in exchange for solutions that address environmental challenges. For the beauty industry, the solutions will relate to turning office and salon trash into energy treasure.
“This is a great opportunity for Australian businesses to think outside the box and develop clever ideas that can help solve policy issues within Government,” Ms Andrews said. “This round of BRII aims to find more effective ways of dealing with challenges that affect our oceans, water and soil quality as well as recycling technologies. Boosting opportunities for businesses to innovate, and doing things more efficiently within government will be crucial as we chart our COVID-19 economic recovery.”
Salons can submit proposals for ideas. Successful applicants will receive grants of up to $100,000 so they can further develop their ideas and test them within a three-month period. Those found to be successful would be eligible for a bigger grant of up to $1 million to develop a prototype or proof of concept over a maximum of 18 months. Relevant government agencies will have the option to purchase these solutions at the end of the proof of concept stage so they can be utilised to their potential.
Applications are set to close on 10 September 2020.
Visit the #BEAUTYSTRONG hub at https://www.professionalbeauty.com.au/beautystrong/
For more news and updates, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.