A low-cost security eye scanner that is almost 100 percent accurate and a DNA test to customise individual fitness programs are among 33 innovative projects to share in more than $2.1 million of Commercialising Emerging Technologies (COMET) program grants to bring their products and services to market.
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, today released details of the latest COMET grant recipients and their innovative products.
The eye scanner, developed by Wavefront Biometric Technologies, captures and analyses the unique properties of light as it reflects off the human cornea. Highly resistant to fraud, the scanner allows for the reliable identification of individuals.
Wavefront Biometric Technologies will use the $64,000 grant for a strategic business plan, market research, an intellectual property strategy working prototype and proven technology activities. [Contact: Wavefront Biometric Technologies, Shanny Dyer 0410 526 130]
COMET is about getting great Australian innovations into the market place, boosting the economy and supporting high-wage, high-skill jobs.
Among the 33 companies each awarded $64,000 COMET grants are:
• a simple DNA swab test developed by Excelgene Pty Ltd, of Mortlake NSW, that determines genetic profiling for health and fitness levels. [Contact: Richard Fahy 0404 897 028]
• a media channel for PCs and mobile phones developed by DPIP Holdings Pty Ltd, of Melbourne, which manages a user's content from emails, internet, iPod, and mobile phone; [Contact David Zimmerman 0417 200 003]
• a competitive online quotation service that allows the consumer to find the right tradesperson or service provider for their job. Developed by WhoCanDo Pty Ltd, of Sydney, this website will save the consumer both time and money; and
[Contact: Robert Finkeldey 02 9979 6138]
The COMET program is one of more than 30 business programs delivered by AusIndustry. A list of the grants announced today can be found at www.ausindustry.gov.au.
Media contact: Patrick Pantano, Minister's Office 0417 181 936
Department, Judi Zielke 02 6213 7330, 0417 276 807