The new Catalysing the Artificial Intelligence Opportunity in Our Regions program by the federal government is expected to provide competitive grant funding over three rounds to regional organisations for artificial intelligence (AI) projects to regional industries, businesses and communities.
The $12 million program is part of the government’s $124.1 million investment under the AI Action Plan.
Under round one, grants of between $250,000 and $500,000 are available.
Minister for Science and Technology Melissa Price said the program would showcase the opportunities for AI to boost regional capabilities, grow trust in this technology and create a pathway for high-skilled jobs in regional Australia.
“This funding will showcase the ingenuity of our regional industries and communities and demonstrate the potential for artificial intelligence to solve uniquely Australian challenges. It will mean more innovative uses of AI, such as AI-assisted tools to increase crop yield by detecting disease and pests or predicting the spread of bushfires. The potential of AI is enormous and will be vital to our future. This investment will create local jobs and help ensure regional Australia is at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry.” Minister Price said.
The program aims to support projects that demonstrate real-world applications of artificial intelligence that address challenges faced in regional areas.
Eligible activities include developing, implementing, and demonstrating novel or innovative AI solutions, providing opportunities for regional businesses to test and experiment with AI, and increasing awareness and trust in AI in regional Australia.
Applicants must submit a joint application, where at least one partner organisation is in a regional area.
Details on how to apply for round one of the program are available at business.gov.au/aicr. More information about Australia’s AI Action plan, including measures under the plan, can be found at industry.gov.au.
