$150,000 in grants is up for grabs via an initiative launched by the Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) and nbn to unearth and nurture innovative use of faster internet connectivity.

Organisations registered and operating in Australia (with a valid ABN) and with a current internet plan from their internet service provider (based on an nbn™ network wholesale speed tier of 25Mbps or higher) are encouraged to apply to one or more of the three categories: Business, Community and Education.

The Grow with nbn™ Program offers three major grants of $25,000 and six minor grants of $10,000 to organisations using internet connectivity powered by the nbn™ network to expand their reach.

An additional grant of $15,000 will be awarded to one of the minor grant recipients via an nbn staff vote. Grant funds can be used for any range of initiatives to help the successful organisations further their growth.

With 70 per cent of the three million premises that already have access to the nbn™ network located in regional and non-metro Australia, nbn Chief Customer Officer John Simon flagged that the Grow with nbn™ Program is aimed at further fostering innovation across the entire country.

“All eligible organisations to grab hold of this opportunity to submit a grant application to continue working towards making themselves market leaders in the digital marketplace”, he said.  

The Grow with nbn™ Program encourages organisations to take advantage of internet connectivity powered by the nbn™ network to innovate and communicate more effectively, and share how they are transforming Australia’s businesses, charitable organisations and communities.

Chief Executive Officer of the AIIA, Rob Fitzpatrick, has applauded the diversity of applications already received.

“We are eager to unearth stories about organisations that are using their nbn™ network connectivity to drive growth, help their communities or improve learning outcomes.

By sharing ideas, innovations and best practices, we can help everyone benefit and improve, which will lead to greater success across the board,” said Mr Fitzpatrick.

Grant applications are open now and close at midday on Friday 17 February 2017 (AEDT). Grant recipients will be announced in March 2017.

To apply, Organisations must register via the program website and complete the application form, which includes providing short written responses and recording a series of brief video clips.  

For more information and to submit an application, visit growwithnbn.com.au