Queensland offers up to $600,000 for regional small business gateway projects

The Queensland Government has opened expressions of interest for Round 1 of the Regional Business Gateways Program, a new grant program to help regional business communities design and deliver local small-business support projects.

A total of $4 million is available in the first round, with grants of $250,000 to $600,000 excluding GST available for eligible collaborative projects. Expressions of interest close at 5pm on 17 July 2026.

The program is not aimed at individual businesses. Eligible applicants include regional Queensland local councils, chambers of commerce, industry or trade organisations, not-for-profit business networking or enabling organisations, and eligible consortiums led by one of those groups. For this program, “regional Queensland” means areas outside the Brisbane City Council local government area.

Projects must address local business needs and fit one or more streams: Business Connectors, focused on supply chains and business-to-business collaboration; Business Accelerators, supporting under-represented, early-stage and micro businesses; or Business Enablers, focused on resilience and operational efficiency in sectors facing long-term challenges.

Why it matters: The program could create new regional business networks, procurement pathways, capability-building programs and sector support initiatives over the coming months. Small businesses may not apply directly, but could benefit if their local council, chamber or industry group secures funding.

Who is affected: Regional Queensland councils, chambers, industry bodies, business networks and small businesses likely to participate in funded local projects.

Next step: Eligible organisations need to submit a Stage 1 expression of interest through SmartyGrants by 17 July 2026. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a more detailed Stage 2 application.

Read More: @Business Queensland - Grants