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WA Food Industry Education Collaboration Program (WAFEC) Information Session

The WA Food Industry Education Collaboration (WAFEC) program connects WA food and beverage businesses with talented Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students to tackle real business projects – bringing fresh thinking and practical support to help you get projects moving.

Our local facilitators provide one-on-one support at every stage:

  • Project scoping – We help identify where STEM expertise can make the biggest impact and define a 200+ hour project scope
  • Full recruitment facilitation – We promote your opportunity, then source, screen and present a shortlist of high-calibre candidates
  • You choose – The final decision on who will join your team is yours
  • Ongoing support – Regular check-ins to help you get the most from your WAFEC experience
  • $2,500 payment – Paid to your business upon project completion. Regional businesses may also be eligible for additional funding for student travel

WAFEC is delivered by CSIRO on behalf of the WA Government’s Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

DEADLINE: HARVEST Program

HARVEST is designed to accelerate the growth of your innovative startup by giving you expert guidance, deep industry insights, critical tools, and strategic connections.

Heading into its ninth year, HARVEST has supported over 90 businesses. The program is valued at over $10,000 and is FREE for successful applicants.

Apply by 30 March 2026

(IGP: Cluster Connect) Grant Readiness: Mastering the Art of Grant Applications

Join Cluster Connect and Successful Grants for an engaging workshop designed to empower businesses with the tools and insights needed to proactively prepare for grants and funding opportunities. Whether you’re new to grants or looking to improve your success rate, this session will provide practical advice and actionable tips.

Key Topics:

  • Understanding the Grant Landscape: Explore common grant types and their requirements.
  • Building a Basic Business Case: Learn the essential elements of crafting a compelling application.
  • Financial Documentation Tips: Discover strategies to present strong, clear financials.
  • Success Stories: Gain inspiration from real-world examples of successful grant applications.

Cluster Connect is the Industry Partner Organisation for Food, Beverage and Agribusinesses for the Industry Growth Program.

Esperance Zone Innovation (EZI) Innovation Day 2026

Esperance Zone Innovation (EZI) will host its next Innovation Day – All About Precision on Wednesday 4 March 2026 from 1pm and Esperance Bay Yacht Club

Bringing together local producers, agribusinesses, researchers and technology developers for a focused day exploring how precision tools and data are being used in both livestock and cropping systems. The day will feature practical, real-world examples of where precision approaches are improving decision-making, productivity and system understanding on farm. Designed to be highly interactive and grounded in producer experience, Innovation Day prioritises discussion and learning over sales, with short presentations and plenty of opportunity for questions and shared insights.

The EZI Group AGM will also be held as part of the event

GreenTech Hub Summer Sundowner

Since its launch in August 2025, the WA GreenTech Hub has been driving innovation, building connections and supporting the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Western Australia.

Now, let’s take some time to celebrate! Come and join us on Wednesday 25 February from 4 to 7 PM for a relaxed late-afternoon sundowner where we’ll celebrate our achievements, share what’s next in energy transitions and bring together stakeholders, industry partners and the wider community, while enjoying drinks, light refreshments and lively conversations in a welcoming and informal setting.

Don’t miss out, this is your chance to connect, reflect and imagine the future together!

We’re looking forward to having you there!

Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/greentech-summer-sundowner

DEADLINE: Churchill Fellowship

The Fellowship provides funding and support for Australians to travel overseas (typically 4-8 weeks) to investigate a topic they’re passionate about. The only requirement? You need to bring what you learn back to Australia and share it with others. Applications open 26 Feb 2026.

You don’t need a degree. You don’t need to be an academic. You can do a Churchill Fellowship on any topic, provided there is a benefit to Australia and your community by you sharing your knowledge or skills. You need curiosity, commitment, and a clear vision for how your learning will create positive change.

Perth information sessions

5 March 2026 at 5.30 pm (AWST), Australian Institute of Management WA (76 Birkdale St, Floreat)

7 March 2026 at 10.00 am (AWST), Access Care Network Australia (ACNA) (5 Sangiorgio Ct, Osborne Park)

Brew Hub and Connect at the AARP

BrewHub and Connect & Autonomo Training Academy Launch – Feb 25

Celebrating the official launch of the Autônomo Training Academy at the AARP, adding another milestone to the precinct and further strengthening the community.

This morning tea style event is a fantastic opportunity to meet and connect with current AARP Users, key stakeholders and the broader robotics and innovation ecosystem.

GRDC Grains Research Update – Perth

A two-day program showcasing the latest research, technology, market development and innovations to improve the productivity and profitability of the WA grains industry.

The 2026 Perth Update will be held on 16 and 17 February at Optus Stadium. The Grains Research Updates are a premier event in the WA grains industry calendar, with around 750 attending each year.

Fields & Fortunes- Regional Business Forum 2026

The Fields and Fortunes Regional Business Forum 2026 is a one-day event bringing together business owners, leaders, innovators and changemakers from across the Great Southern to connect, learn and explore how technology is shaping the next chapter of regional business.

With a strong focus on practical innovation, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, this forum is designed to inspire, inform and equip regional businesses with tools and ideas they can apply immediately. Whether you’re running a small business, leading a team, working in agriculture, industry or services, or planning for future growth, this event will provide real-world insights tailored to regional contexts.

What makes this event special?

  • A high-calibre speaker lineup led by keynote speaker Julian Moore, one of Australasia’s leading experts in the practical application of AI
  • Industry experts covering connectivity, green technology, robotics, innovation and creative tech
  • Local case studies showcasing how technology is already being used successfully in regional businesses
  • Interactive discussions, networking opportunities and access to trade booths featuring innovative products and services
  • A welcoming regional setting with catering provided and time built in to connect with peers

Featured Speakers Include:

  • Julian Moore – Chief AI Consultant, Strategic Membership Solutions (Keynote)
  • Mat Lewis – Director, Creative Tech Village
  • Bethany Findlay – Regional Development & Engagement Manager, NBN
  • Jason McFarlane – Director, WA GreenTech Innovation Hub
  • Renu Kannu – National Robotics & Innovation Leader – Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct (CORE Innovation Hub as Operator)
  • Plus local business case studies including Burke Perry from BP Imports

Learn more and register here: https://events.humanitix.com/fields-and-fortunes-regional-business-forum-2026