What is the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) in Australia?

The BRII is a government funding programme designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing innovative research and commercial applications. It represents a significant opportunity for Australian businesses to access capital and resources that can help them scale their operations and contribute to closing the productivity gap in the economy.

How can government procurement policies drive innovation in Australia?

Government procurement policies can act as powerful innovation catalysts by creating demand for new products, services, and solutions from SMEs and emerging businesses. When government agencies prioritise innovative suppliers, they stimulate market competition, encourage research and development investment, and help build Australia's competitive advantage in the global economy.

What is the 'missing middle' in Australian business?

The 'missing middle' refers to the gap between Australia's small startups and large multinational corporations, where mid-sized innovative businesses struggle to grow and scale. This gap represents a significant opportunity for economic growth, job creation, and productivity improvement that remains largely untapped in the Australian economy.

Why should Australian PR agencies like Third Hemisphere cover innovation policy news?

Australian PR agencies like Third Hemisphere recognise that government policy shifts, particularly those affecting procurement and innovation funding, are critical news stories for their clients in the technology, research, and SME sectors. Covering these developments helps businesses understand regulatory changes and strategic opportunities that could impact their operations and growth.

Who is Sally-Ann Williams and what is Cicada Innovations?

Sally-Ann Williams is the CEO of Cicada Innovations, an organisation focused on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Australia. As a thought leader in the innovation space, she has been instrumental in advocating for policy changes, including the effective use of government procurement as a tool to support emerging businesses and drive economic development.

What role does Third Hemisphere play in communicating innovation policy to Australian businesses?

Third Hemisphere, as a Sydney-based PR and communications agency, specialises in translating complex policy developments and innovation initiatives into actionable insights for their clients. By covering stories about procurement innovation and government funding programmes, they help businesses understand how to position themselves to take advantage of new opportunities in the evolving Australian innovation landscape.

Innovative procurement can build our missing middle