Teaching language through music, AI discovering flaws in security systems and improving decision-making during natural disasters are just some of the challenges Canberra startups are tackling with backing from the Canberra Innovation Network and its Innovation Connect (ICON) grant program.
Seven startups have been selected by Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) as recipients of ICON grants, which give early-stage businesses matched funding of between $10,000-$30,000, to support product development such as market testing, prototyping, patenting and commercial feasibility.
The rolling program is supported by the ACT government and handing out $180,000 in combined grant funding with this round.
CBRIN COO Sharyn Smith said the city’s startups continually demonstrate diversity, breadth and creative thinking with inspired solutions.
“The everyday problems that we face as a society are confronted head on by the innovative changemakers that 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 Grants will close in September.
The latest ICON grant recipients are:
- AppSec Fast-track – An AI solution which detects and fixes code defects, improving cyber security outcomes for organisations in a fraction of the time.
- Disaster Science –Taking Australian Bushfire IO to the US – An app to inform and improve decision making when faced with a natural disaster.
- Lingosing! – A subscription platform which uses AI-enhanced, grammatically correct nursery rhymes to teach language.
- Powerhaus Zero-Carbon Tool – A software solution which turns the mandatory energy-efficiency star rating into practical, decision-oriented graphics, helping people build future-proof homes.
- Vibe Dynamics – An innovation to facilitate, rehabilitate and promote better sexual function for those with complex medical conditions.
- RediRobots – A robotic solution to assist textile recyclers in sorting and handling waste streams.
- The Easy Read Toolbox – A resource to increase use of easy to understand, accessible communication for people with disabilities / low literacy.