The Innovation Events Fund QLD provides funding for Queensland-based innovation-driven organisations to design and deliver high-quality innovation events. With grants between $10,000 and $25,000, this program supports events that explore new or emerging innovations, build skills, and strengthen connections across the innovation ecosystem.

Applications close 16 March 2026. This is a relatively straightforward application for organisations already planning or running innovation-focused events.

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What the grant offers

• Between $10,000 and $25,000 in funding
• Support for designing and delivering innovation events in Queensland
• Covers event costs directly related to delivery

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Who should apply

• Queensland-based innovation-driven organisations
• Must be a legal entity with an active ABN and GST registration
• Headquartered in QLD and operational for at least 12 months
• Must be the event owner with rights to the event and all relevant approvals
• Must hold appropriate public liability insurance

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What makes a strong application

The program is looking for events that do more than just gather people in a room. The strongest applications will show a clear connection between the event and a tangible innovation outcome, whether that is showcasing new technology, building commercialisation skills, or creating meaningful connections between founders, researchers, investors, and industry.

Four categories of events tend to perform well against this program's objectives. First, events that explore or showcase emerging innovations, products, or services. Second, events that build skills and pathways supporting commercialisation, technology adoption, or new ways of working. Third, events that foster engagement between different parts of the ecosystem, particularly where those connections do not already exist. Fourth, events supporting Indigenous-led innovation and entrepreneurship with real-world community outcomes.

If your event fits more than one of these categories, make that clear in your application. An event that both showcases emerging tech and connects founders with investors is stronger than one that only does one of those things.

Practical details matter too. Assessors want to see that you can actually deliver the event. A track record of running similar events, confirmed venues, speaker commitments, and a realistic budget all signal that the funding will be put to good use.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I use the funding for an online event?

The program is focused on events delivered within Queensland. Check the detailed guidelines for whether virtual or hybrid formats are eligible, but in-person or hybrid events with a strong QLD presence are the safest bet.

Do I need to have run events before?

There is no explicit requirement for prior event experience, but demonstrating organisational capacity to deliver is important. If this is your first event, showing that you have the right team, partners, and plan in place will help.

Can the event be part of a larger conference or festival?

Potentially, provided you are the event owner and can clearly separate the funded component. If your innovation event is a standalone stream within a broader program, make the scope and budget distinct.

What if my organisation is based in regional QLD?

Regional applications are likely to be well received. Innovation ecosystem building outside of South East Queensland aligns with the state government's broader economic development priorities, so highlight the regional impact of your event.

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Why it is worth your time

At $10,000 to $25,000, this grant can cover a significant portion of event delivery costs without requiring a complex or lengthy application. For organisations already planning innovation events, this is essentially co-funding for something you were going to do anyway.

Beyond the money, a government-backed event carries credibility. It can help attract higher-profile speakers, sponsors, and attendees who might otherwise pass on a self-funded event.

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How Grant Savvy helps

We write it for you. Grant applications are time consuming and competitive. We handle the writing, positioning, and submission so you can focus on planning your event.

We know what assessors look for. Our team has helped clients secure over $45 million in government funding. We understand how to frame your event around program objectives and assessment criteria.

Strategic positioning. We help you connect your event to Queensland's innovation priorities in a way that is specific and compelling rather than generic.

Fixed pricing, no surprises. Our fees are transparent and structured so you know exactly what you are paying before we start.

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Our process

• Initial consultation to understand your event and goals
• Eligibility confirmation and program fit assessment
• Drafting your application with supporting narrative
• Internal review against assessment criteria
• Final revisions with your input
• Submission before the deadline
• Post-submission support and follow-up

Standard turnaround: 3-4 weeks. Rush options available when capacity permits.