Bee quick: New honey bee and pollination development grants to boost the industry

The grants seek to expand industry knowledge and skills to secure the industry’s future. Individuals and organisations with a project or idea which can benefit the Australian honey bee and pollination industry are invited to apply for a grant from AgriFutures Australia valued at up to $5,000. Applications close 12 noon Thursday, 13 August 2020.

Annelies McGaw, Manager, Research AgriFutures Australia said the industry development grants were introduced to address current challenges.

“It’s been a tough few years for the industry. While research and development will play a role in rebuilding the industry, participation and innovation are key to ensure the profitability and sustainability of the industry,” said Ms McGaw.

For the 2020/21 industry development grant round the Advisory Panel is looking for applications to support business and industry development, personal development within the industry, seed funding to explore a research problem and/or travel grants.

Ms McGaw added: “Ultimately applicants must clearly demonstrate a strong benefit for the industry at large and not just to one organisation or individual.”

Applications must also address one or more of the strategies outlined in the Strategic Plan.

These include:

• Increasing productivity and profitability of beekeepers.
• Reducing the incidence and impact of pests and diseases.
• Increasing understanding of the role of flora in honey bee management.
• Understanding the role of pollination in productive systems.
• And promoting extension, communication and capacity building.

If you or your organisation are involved in the Australian honey bee and pollination industry, apply now for a industry development grant, valued at up to $5000, Get your application in before 13 August 2020.