Unlock R&D funding for your innovation

Yes, service-based businesses can often qualify for R&D grants if their work involves genuine experimentation or technical problem-solving. For example, developing proprietary platforms or new delivery models may be eligible for R&D funding. The R&D Tax Incentive is one of the largest R and D grants Australia programs, designed to support a wide range of industries. Even companies without physical products may benefit from R&D financing options linked to their claims.

R&D financing allows companies to access expected refunds from their R&D grant before the end of the financial year. This provides working capital to reinvest in innovation while waiting for government processing. Businesses approved for the R&D Tax Incentive often use financing to cover ongoing costs. Combining R&D funding with R&D financing ensures cash flow is steady throughout the development cycle.

No, startups don’t need revenue to access R&D funding. In fact, many early-stage companies receive a refundable R&D grant because they are loss-making. This means cash can flow back into the business even before generating sales. The R&D Tax Incentive is designed to encourage innovation, regardless of company age or size. Pairing this with R&D financing can help startups sustain ambitious projects without external investors.

Generally, businesses must spend at least $20,000 on eligible activities to qualify for R&D grants. This threshold ensures the government supports significant, documented innovation projects. Once eligibility is confirmed, companies can receive substantial R&D funding or cash back. Some firms also use R&D financing to bridge gaps between the spend and the refund. This makes the R&D Tax Incentive accessible for both small and medium enterprises.

Unlike general grants, the R&D Tax Incentive is an entitlement rather than a competitive program. This means all eligible businesses can access R&D funding if they meet criteria, rather than competing for limited spots. AusIndustry are focused on innovation and experimentation, not just expansion. Businesses can also combine their R&D grant with other funding sources, and in some cases, use R&D financing to accelerate access to capital.

In most cases, the R&D Tax Incentive covers activities conducted locally. However, overseas costs may be included if an advanced finding from the regulator is obtained. Businesses should carefully assess where work is undertaken when applying for R&D funding. For companies relying on offshore teams, professional support is essential to maximise their R&D grant. In some cases, R&D financing may still provide early cash flow while eligibility is confirmed.

Timing depends on when your claim is lodged and processed. Many businesses receive their R&D grant benefit within 6–8 weeks of submission. For faster access, R&D financing can be arranged against expected refunds. This means you don’t need to wait until year-end to access your entitlement. Using the R&D Tax Incentive strategically ensures innovation projects are not delayed by cash flow gaps.

Yes, eligible salary and contractor costs can be included in your R&D grant claim. This makes R&D funding an effective way to expand technical teams and accelerate product development. Businesses can direct their R&D Tax Incentive entitlement towards building expertise while reducing financial pressure. If hiring causes upfront cash flow strain, R&D financing can help bridge the gap until the refund is received.