The Minns Labor Government has opened the gateway for New South Wales startups and entrepreneurs by launching the second round of the 2025-26 Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Ventures Program. The initiative, bubbling with potential, offers $3 million in grant funding designed to turn visionary ideas into market realities.

A Diverse Fabric of Opportunity

The program doesn’t just offer financial support; it’s a beacon of hope for diverse innovation. A central aspect of the MVP Ventures Program is its targeted assistance for underrepresented groups, as identified in former Tech Council CEO Kate Pounder’s review. This means women, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and regional tech founders can look forward to more equitable chances to thrive. With a spotlight on diversity and equity, the effort taps into broader talent pools to elevate NSW’s innovation ecosystem to unprecedented heights.

Dual Streams of Support

Round two encompasses two specific funding streams. For many founders, Stream One presents an opportunity with grants up to \(50,000 requiring a 50% co-contribution. Meanwhile, Stream Two, reserved for women-owned, regional, and Indigenous businesses, offers a generous maximum of \)75,000 with just a 25% co-contribution. These tailored streams acknowledge unique challenges and tap potential that drives groundbreaking innovation.

Selecting the cream of the crop is a meticulous process. Applications are judged on innovation potential, commercial viability, and alignment with NSW Industry Policy missions. Success stories from earlier rounds reveal high competition, with 309 entries vying for top spots, an inspiring glimpse into NSW’s rich vein of entrepreneurial spirit.

Why Apply Now?

New South Wales’ Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Anoulack Chanthivong, strongly encourages eligible founders to dive in: “NSW is home to world-class talent and a vibrant startup community. The MVP Ventures Program is about giving our founders the support they need to turn great ideas into commercial success.”

Grasping this opportunity isn’t just about securing funding; it’s about becoming part of a thriving cohort eager to redefine the business landscape. Round two applications will be open until December 21, 2025. According to Mirage News, it is imperative to reach out and seize this chance, further details on eligibility and application guidelines are accessible on the official NSW Government website.

Final Insight

This round of the MVP Ventures Program breaks the mould, paving the way for diverse perspectives in the innovation economy. By emboldening bright minds and fostering inclusive growth, NSW isn’t just nurturing startups; it’s rewriting the future of industry and technology, ensuring a prosperous and varied economic horizon.