An $18 million government program backing female founders is seeking feedback

The Australian Government is currently seeking feedback on its $18 million Female Founders Initiative, due to roll out in 2020.

Industry, Science and Technology Minister Karen Andrews said the program is designed to support female business founders and consultation on it is underway until September 30.

“We want to give businesses led by women the best opportunity to succeed so that they can strengthen their financial security and boost the Australian economy,” Minister Andrews said.

“This program will help startups founded by women to access early stage capital and overcome barriers needed to get their ideas off the ground and go global.

“It will also ensure the entrepreneurial needs of diverse groups are served, including female entrepreneurs in regional areas who don’t have the same support as those in our urban centres.”

Grants from the program will be available over three years from 2020 on a co-contribution basis.

Details on how to provide feedback on the Female Founders Initiative discussion paper are available here.