Regional Development Australia, Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island is urging local businesses to get grant ready, with applications due to open on 3 March for its Hills & Coast Business Grant.

The RDA has created a four-point checklist to help businesses prepare applications:

1. Finalise the project and prepare a high-level breakdown of project costs, including expected gains.
2. Get quotes organised. They must less than three months old, with preference for local suppliers  where possible.
3. Have a clear business plan that shows how the grant will support growth.
4. Have financial details in order, with the latest profit and loss statement and a 2-year financial forecast.

The grant is open to all manufacturing businesses undertaking a process of value-adding and/or the processing of raw materials or parts into finished goods across the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island.

The RDA’s Hills & Coast Business Grant received national recognition in the 2023 Economic Development Awards for Excellence.

It has financially supported 21 regional manufacturers since its inception.

More information will be available The RDA AFKI website when grant applications open on Monday 3 March.