Joint media release with Michael Aird MLC, Tasmanian Minister for Economic Development
North East Tasmanian businesses with projects that will generate long-term employment opportunities are invited to apply for grant funds under the $600,000 North East Tasmania Micro Program (NETMicro) scheme.
The program is a joint initiative of the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and is the first instalment in the North East Tasmania Development Package.
NETMicro will provide funding assistance of up to $50,000 to businesses and those wishing to establish businesses in the Dorset region.
The scheme will be administered by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism. Applications will be received at any time for a two-year period to June 2010.
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research said:
"The micro capital scheme will be open to displaced mill workers who wish to consider new business and self-employment opportunities, and other applicants who want to develop new opportunities or expand existing businesses to create sustainable jobs."
"Up to $50,000 will be available to each applicant through micro capital grants. The funds will be allocated on an ongoing basis until June 2010 or until they are depleted.
"This scheme will allow more immediate action to quickly address local concerns and re-engage displaced workers into the workforce," Senator Carr said.
Minister for Economic Development, Michael Aird, said the NETMicro fund will assist small to medium organisations to undertake projects that aid sustainable economic development in the Dorset area.
“The focus is on helping small businesses improve efficiency and productivity, as well as increasing business capacity and capability,” Mr Aird said.
“The State Government is pleased to be able to help out and offer funds that can create and retain employment to benefit the hard-working people in the Dorset region.”
Information sessions will be run on both programs on 27 and 28 October in Scottsdale and advertisements will appear in local newspapers advising how to register for these sessions.
Further information on the North East Tasmania Innovation and Investment Fund can be found at www.ausindustry.gov.au or by phoning the AusIndustry hotline on 13 28 46.
Further information on the NETMicro program can be found at www.development.tas.gov.au or by phoning Business Point on
1800 804 687.