Language teaching through music, AI that detects flaws in security systems and improves decision-making during natural disasters are just some of the challenges that Canberra startups are addressing with support from the Canberra Innovation Network and the Innovation Connect (ICON) grant program.
Seven startups have been selected by Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) as recipients of ICON grants, which provide start-up companies with matched funding of between $10,000-$30,000, to support product development such as market testing, prototyping, patenting and commercial feasibility.
The ongoing program is supported by the ACT government and is awarding $180,000 in combined grant money with this round.
CBRIN COO Sharyn Smith said the city’s startups are constantly demonstrating diversity, breadth and creative thinking with inspired solutions.
“The everyday problems we face as a society are facing the innovative changemakers we are so fortunate to have in our city,” she said.
“These ideas are changing the way we do things for the better.”
The next round of the Innovation Connect Scholarships will close in September.
The most recent ICON grant recipients are:
- AppSec Fast track – An AI solution that detects and fixes code defects, improving cybersecurity outcomes for organizations in a fraction of the time.
- Disaster Science – Bringing Australian Bushfire IO to the US – An app to inform and improve decision making in the event of a natural disaster.
- Lingo! – A subscription platform that uses AI-enhanced, grammatically correct nursery rhymes to teach language.
- Powerhaus low carbon tools – A software solution that converts the mandatory energy efficiency star rating into practical, decision-making images, enabling people to build future-proof homes.
- Atmosphere dynamics – An innovation to facilitate, rehabilitate and promote better sexual function for those with complex medical conditions.
- Redi Robots – A robotic solution to help textile recyclers sort and process waste streams.
- The Easy Read Toolbox – A tool to increase the use of easy-to-understand, accessible communication for people with disabilities / low literacy.