Made in the Pilbara Grant Program: Supporting Regional Manufacturing and Innovation
Made in the Pilbara Grant Program: Supporting Regional Manufacturing and Innovation
MEDIA RELEASE
Date of release Friday 31 October 2025
The Pilbara region is taking a major step forward in regional manufacturing and innovation with the launch of the Made in the Pilbara Grant Program — with a pool of $500,000 funded by the Western Australian Government and BHP, and delivered by CORE Innovation Hub.
The initiative will provide targeted support to Pilbara-based small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to adopt advanced manufacturing, localise supply chains, and bring proof-of-concept technologies to market — driving local jobs, building sovereign capability, and unlocking new business growth in the region.
“We know that regional manufacturers play a crucial role in the State’s economy. By providing targeted support for technology adoption and skills development, this program will help unlock new opportunities for local businesses to scale, compete, and collaborate,” said Kate Spencer, WA Innovation Lead, CORE Innovation Hub.
“Our aim is to make sure the Pilbara is not only known for its resources, but also for its innovation and manufacturing strength.”
The initiative aligns with the Cook Government’s Made in WA plan, which sets out the vision to keep WA’s economy strong, put manufacturing back at the heart of the economy, make more things in WA, and create the jobs of the future. It also supports BHP’s vision for thriving, empowered communities, contributing to BHP’s 2030 social value goal to partner with communities and stakeholders to co-create and implement plans that deliver jointly defined economic, social, and environmental outcomes.
Tim Day, BHP WA Iron Ore Asset President, said “What happens in the Pilbara shapes the success of Western Australia and our nation. Through this program, we’re backing local SMEs to innovate, grow and create new jobs, build resilient supply chains, and succeed on the global stage. It’s all about keeping the Pilbara firing, and we’re very pleased to play our part.”
Through two grant streams — Small Grants (up to $50,000) and Innovation Seed Funding (up to $25,000) — the program will help businesses invest in new technology, equipment, and workforce development to strengthen regional capability and drive economic diversification.
Applications open 31 October 2025 and close 19 December 2025, with grant winners to be announced by 27 February 2026. Information sessions will be held across the Pilbara to help businesses learn more about the program and application process.
How to Apply
The program is open to small-to-medium enterprises based in, or seeking to establish or expand in, the Pilbara region. For full guidelines, eligibility and to apply visit www.corehub.com.au/made-in-the-pilbara
Media Contact
Kate Spencer
WA Innovation Lead, CORE Innovation Hub
E: info@corehub.com.au
W: www.corehub.com.au
P: 0437 058 658