Queensland’s Market Accelerator Program for export‑ready businesses to scale globally

Applications for this funding program have now closed.

The Queensland Government’s Market Accelerator Program is now open, offering matched funding to help emerging and established exporters convert global opportunities into confirmed commercial outcomes. The competitive grants program is administered by Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) and provides up to $30,000 in matched funding to support practical, outcome‑focused activities that build export capability and accelerate entry into new global markets.

About the program

The Market Accelerator program provides matched funding of up to $30,000 (ex GST) for activities that directly support securing export outcomes. This includes:

• Engaging market specialists
• Meeting regulatory or accreditation requirements
• Obtaining professional advice
• Product redesign or export‑specific testing
• Travel costs linked to finalising export deals.

These eligible activities are designed to help businesses respond quickly to global market conditions and accelerate growth. The program will also assist Queensland exporters to build resilience and leverage emerging investment opportunities arising from their projects.

Who can apply

To qualify, applicants must:

• Apply for up to $30,000 in funding and provide a 1:1 matched cash contribution
• Operate as a Queensland‑based small to medium‑sized enterprise with 199 or fewer full‑time employees
• Hold an active ABN and be registered for GST
• Demonstrate a minimum trading history of two full financial years, supported by financial statements
• Be export‑ready and able to show evidence of a pre‑qualified international buyer
• Produce and export Queensland products (not acting as a consolidator or distributor)
• Have a project capable of delivering export outcomes within the grant period
• Applicants must also meet all assessment criteria and submit required documentation.

The program is particularly relevant for businesses seeking to enter new international markets where they can demonstrate capacity to secure and match the project funding.

Why it matters for Queensland businesses

Export‑oriented subject matter experts play a key role in driving economic growth, diversifying markets, and strengthening Queensland’s connection to global supply chains. The Market Accelerator Program directly supports these objectives by:

• Helping companies convert export opportunities into confirmed contracts
• Providing structured financial support to manage complex export transactions
• Enabling businesses to respond to rapidly evolving international market conditions
• Supporting activities that create jobs and attract investment into Queensland.

How BDO can help

BDO supports Queensland businesses at every stage of their export journey, from strategic planning and risk management to financial modelling, tax considerations, and grant application support. Our national and global network enables us to help clients navigate regulatory requirements, identify new market pathways, and position their products and services competitively on a global scale.

If you are considering applying for the Market Accelerator Program, our R&D and government incentives team can work with you to assess eligibility and prepare supporting documentation.

Our customs, international trade & excise team also provide advice for importers, exporters and manufacturers of excisable goods to understand tariff measures, optimise costs, improve operational efficiency and ensure compliance across international supply chains.

Contact us today for support.