Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea that would benefit the Western Australian grains industry have an opportunity to apply for a scholarship to attend the Curtin Ignition innovation accelerator program.
It is the third time the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has offered the scholarships, which have helped to progress a diverse range of grains innovations.
One of the 2017 scholarship recipients, Kahl Fisher, is about to take his business idea to investors to develop a prototype bioconversion system, which uses insects to convert organic waste into a premium compost, biofuel and high protein animal feed.
Mr Fisher said the intense, week-long Ignition program, run by Curtin University’s Business School, was outstanding and catapulted his business plan forward.
“It really helped me with my financial research and with the development of a solid concept that I am now confident to take to investors,” he said.
“I learnt a lot from the speakers and the other participants and the mentoring was particularly valuable in challenging my business ideas and where to take them.
“The opportunity to network with other business people was also a highlight of the program.”
Department grains research and development director, Kerry Regan, said the scholarships had stimulated several grains business ideas since its inception three years ago.
“There are so many opportunities for innovation in the grains industry, as we have seen from the outcomes of these scholarships,” Ms Regan said.
“This includes the development of a grains-based infant feed formula, as well as an allergy-friendly snack made from local grains, fruit and vegetables and Mr Fisher’s organic waste bioconversion system.
“I am sure there are people with other grains-based business ideas who will benefit from the training, mentoring and networking acquired by participating in this highly regarded accelerator program.”
The 2018 Curtin Ignition Program will run from 26-31 August.
For more information or to apply for a DPIRD Curtin Ignition Scholarship contact DPIRD research officer Alex Douglas on 9821 3246 or alex.douglas@dpird.wa.gov.au or click here
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