Enterprise Connect is a $271 million national initiative established by the Australian Government. It was launched by Senator the Honourable Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research on 21 May 2008. A copy of the media release is available here.
The initiative is administered by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research in collaboration with a number of Partner Organisations.
Enterprise Connect aims to provide comprehensive support to Australian small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), which are a vital part of Australia’s economic future.
SMEs face many challenges, but today’s business environment also brings opportunities. Enterprise Connect is designed to help SMEs acquire the knowledge, tools and expertise to improve productivity, increase competitiveness and fully capitalise on their growth potential.
Enterprise Connect comprises two components, the Manufacturing Network and Innovation Centres. Together, they provide a national network of services and support for eligible SMEs in target sectors and regions, to access expert, practical advice and support tailored to their individual firms.
A large team of skilled Business Advisers located in metropolitan and regional Australia ensures that services can be delivered to eligible firms nationwide.
The Manufacturing Network has centres located in Sydney (NSW), Brisbane (QLD), Melbourne (VIC), Adelaide (SA), Perth (WA) and Burnie (TAS).
There are five specialist Innovation Centres that represent areas of strategic importance to Australia’s economic future:
A Defence Industry Innovation Centre will be based in Melbourne and will open in mid 2009.
Both the Manufacturing and Innovation Centres provide eligible SMEs with a full suite of advisory services. These include:
- Business Reviews conducted for free by one of our Business Advisers
- Tailored Advisory Service provides funding to implement actions identified in the Business Review
- Researchers in Business offers the placement of researchers from universities or public research agencies into businesses to help develop and implement new commercial ideas
- Ongoing mentoring and support
- Ready and easy access to the best knowledge and research
- Help with accessing other government programs and funding
Discretionary Grants
From time to time, Enterprise Connect may award discretionary grants to fund projects and activities to assist in the implementation, design and delivery of services consistent with the program's objectives. Guidelines for the awarding of these grants are available here.
Client Service Charter
Enterprise Connect's commitment to excellent client service is reflected in the Client Service Charter. The Charter provides information on the program, service targets and feedback mechanisms.
Complaints
If you would like to make a formal complaint, please read the Procedures for Handling Complaints. The Procedures provide information on how to make a complaint, how your complaint will be handled and timeframes. A Complaints Form is also available to assist you to lodge a complaint.
For further information, call the Enterprise Connect Hotline between the hours of 9.00am and 5.00pm (AEST) on 131 791 (Australian callers only) or email enterpriseconnect@innovation.gov.au