Grants to modernise local manufacturers

TO become more competitive in the global market, local businesses are set for a financial boost from the Federal government.

As part of the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, five businesses across Ballarat are to receive a combined total of more than $650,000 aimed at creating jobs and helping upgrade facilities.

Successful grants include $85,000 for Paarhammer Windows and Doors, $100,000 each for Grounded Pleasures, Athlegen and C.E. Bartlett alongside $280,875 for Springhill Farms.

Federal member for Ballarat, Catherine King, said improvement and growth is crucial for businesses to remain competitive.

“Ballarat is full of wonderful, innovative businesses. It is great to see that these five businesses have been recognised for their ongoing success and will receive this funding to expand their operations,” she said.

“As we go through tough economic times, we are seeing just how important businesses like these are to our communities and our region. Each of these businesses employs locals and put money back into our regional economy.”

The program is funding a diverse range of manufacturers from across the region, from Grounded Pleasures, a hot chocolate purveyor, C.E. Bartlett who specialise in blinds, irrigation and tank services as well as Athlegen, a provider of massage and treatment tables.

Around 200 projects will be supported by the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund across Australia totalling $215 million, with the federal government contributing almost $50 million.