TCF sector gets golden opportunity

Businesses in the textile, clothing and footwear industry will again be given the opportunity to apply for a grant of $250,000 or more, as the government strives to strengthen the sector.

The initiative, part of the Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) Strategic Capability Program, is now accepting applications for round three of the funding process with the submission deadline set for 5pm on Friday, May 11, 2012.

The program, supported by the Gillard government, aims to fund strategic projects that increase innovative capability across the Australian TCF industry at the enterprise and workplace level.

Minister assisting for industry & innovation Kate Lundy said the Gillard government has invested more than $32 million in the manufacturing industry so far and supported 16 businesses to progress ambitious projects.

“The Gillard government’s investment in textile, clothing and footwear ingenuity demonstrates our commitment to the industry and their workers,” she said.

“This investment underpins our belief that the sector can adapt to the times and is a valuable part of a diverse economy. Despite the challenges facing the sector, efficiency, clever design and vision will pay-off in the long term.”

The TCF SCP is a five year, $35 million, competitive grant program, which runs from July 2010 to June 2015.

The minimum grant size is $250,000 and funding must be matched on a dollar for dollar basis. This means that the smallest project that can receive a grant must have a budget of at least $500,000 in eligible expenditure, with $250,000 contributed by the grantee and $250,000 from the Australian government.

For more information on the TCF Strategic Capability Program and other industry support programs, phone AusIndustry on 13 28 46, email hotline@ausindustry.gov.au or visit www.ausindustry.gov.au.