The Pilbara region is set to get a funding boost that will help support the growth of local businesses, create skilled jobs and strengthen regional supply chains.
The Western Australian Government is delivering $500,000 in a move to support business growth and diversify the Pilbara region.
Partnering with BHP and CORE Innovation Hub (CORE), the funding will be supplied through the Made in the Pilbara initiative to 11 businesses, creating 40 jobs and 14 apprenticeships.
Western Australia Manufacturing and Pilbara Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the benefits of this continued support will continue to be evident in the future.
The state government added that this will unlock more than $800,000 in private sector investment, demonstrating strong industry support for Pilbara-led innovation.
Made in the Pilbara was developed by CORE with support from the WA government through the local manufacturing investment fund (LMIF), and with co-investment from BHP.
CORE designs, activates and builds innovation infrastructure across Australia, connecting industry, startups, and government through test beds, hubs and collaborative precincts.
BHP’s Western Australia Iron Ore asset president Tim Day said initiatives like this help keep the Pilbara running.
“Made in the Pilbara gives local businesses the chance to innovate, grow, and compete, while creating skilled employment and training opportunities in the communities where we operate,” he said.
“A strong local supply chain really strikes at the heart of our strategy in the region.”