Unlocking Growth with Small Business Grants in WA
For many small business owners, growth can feel like a balancing act. You want to invest in new opportunities, but the costs of scaling up – whether through hiring, technology, or professional advice – can make that leap challenging.
Fortunately, government grants are designed to bridge that gap, providing financial support that helps businesses take their next steps with confidence.
One current opportunity is the Small Business Growth Grant available through the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC).
What is the Small Business Growth Grant?
The Small Business Growth Grant is designed to help Western Australian small businesses access specialist advice or services that support growth. Whether you’re looking to improve systems and processes, refine your marketing, or strengthen your financial foundations, the grant can make professional expertise more affordable and accessible.
Who is eligible?
To apply, your business generally needs to:
- Be based in Western Australia.
- Have been operating for at least two years.
- Employ fewer than 20 people.
- Demonstrate a clear plan for how the grant will support growth.
(Eligibility criteria may be subject to change – always check the SBDC website for the most up-to-date requirements.)
What can the grant be used for?
Funds from the Small Business Growth Grant are typically directed toward engaging external experts who can provide targeted advice. This might include:
- Strategic business planning.
- Marketing and branding strategies.
- Digital transformation or technology adoption.
- Financial management and forecasting.
- Workforce planning and development.
The goal is to help small businesses build capability that has long-term impact, rather than simply covering everyday operating costs.
Why consider applying?
For many small businesses, external advice is the missing link to achieving sustainable growth. Grants like this can:
- Reduce the financial burden of investing in professional support.
- Accelerate business improvements that may otherwise be delayed.
- Provide clarity and confidence in making growth decisions.
At HPH Solutions, we see first-hand how the right advice at the right time can transform a business. For example, developing a clear financial strategy can help owners identify opportunities, reduce risks, and ensure they are making the most of their resources.
Tips for making the most of your grant
- Start with a plan – Define your growth priorities before applying. Know exactly what you want to achieve with external expertise.
- Choose the right advisers – Select providers who not only have the technical knowledge but also understand your industry and growth stage.
- Think long-term – Use the grant to build sustainable capability (e.g., financial modelling, systems, or processes) rather than short-term fixes.
- Measure impact – Establish clear metrics for success so you can demonstrate how the grant-supported project has added value to your business.
- Leverage the momentum – Treat the grant as a springboard. The improvements you make should continue delivering benefits well beyond the funding period.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using funds for day-to-day expenses – The grant isn’t designed to cover rent, payroll, or other operational costs.
- Rushing the application – A poorly prepared application that doesn’t align with growth goals is less likely to be successful.
- Engaging the wrong expertise – Working with advisers who lack small business or industry experience can dilute the value of the grant.
- Failing to follow through – Some businesses secure funding but don’t fully implement the recommendations they receive, missing out on potential impact.
- Not keeping records – Always track how funds are spent and the outcomes achieved. This not only ensures compliance but can strengthen future grant applications.
Here’s what you can do
- Visit the Small Business Development Corporation website to explore the details of the Small Business Growth Grant.
- Review the eligibility criteria and application process. Applications must be received by 5:00pm, Friday 3 October 2025 (AWST).
- Consider where external advice could have the biggest impact on your business growth.
- Reach out to your advisers to discuss how professional guidance could help you leverage grant funding effectively.