Unlocking Startup Grants and Incentives: How Sydney Accountants Help New Businesses Access Funding

Starting a business in Sydney is an exciting venture, but also a financially demanding one. While entrepreneurial spirit drives innovation, cash flow and capital often determine whether a startup thrives or stalls. Fortunately, there’s a wide array of government grants, rebates, and incentives designed to support startups across New South Wales—and a skilled Sydney accountant can help unlock them.

In this guide, we explore the key types of funding available to startups, how accountants streamline the application process, and the long-term value of having professional financial guidance from day one.

Why Grants Matter to Startups

Grants are non-repayable funds that reduce the financial burden of launching and scaling a business. Whether it’s funding for research and development, hiring staff, purchasing equipment, or exporting goods, grants can:

Extend your startup runway
Support innovation and competitiveness
Reduce early-stage financial risk
Improve investor confidence

But many startups miss out because they’re unaware of available programs or lack the resources to apply properly. That’s where accountants make a major impact.

Common Grants and Incentives for Sydney Startups

Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentive The R&D Tax Incentive provides up to a 43.5% refundable tax offset for eligible R&D activities. It supports businesses investing in new technology, software, or scientific advancement.

Suitable for tech startups, biotech firms, and product innovators
Applications are reviewed by AusIndustry and the ATO

2. Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) Helps reimburse eligible export promotion expenses for businesses seeking overseas markets.

Up to $770,000 across multiple years
Applies to digital marketing, trade shows, overseas reps

3. NSW MVP Ventures Program Supports early-stage NSW startups working on scalable tech solutions with up to $50,000 in matched funding.

Particularly relevant to pre-revenue, high-growth potential startups
Requires a minimum viable product (MVP) and commercialisation plan

4. Jobs Plus Program Available to fast-growing companies creating new jobs in NSW.

Incentives include payroll tax relief, infrastructure support, and training subsidies

The Accountant's Role in Grant Access

Sydney accountants are key to navigating the complex eligibility and documentation requirements associated with startup grants. Their expertise includes:

1. Identifying the Right Grants

Analyse your industry, goals, and financial structure
Recommend relevant federal, state, or local programs

2. Preparing Accurate Financials

Grants often require historic and forecasted financial reports
Accountants ensure figures are ATO-compliant and audit-ready

3. Maximising Claimable Expenses

R&D or export expenses can be broad
A good accountant ensures nothing is left unclaimed

4. Managing Lodgment Timelines

Missing a deadline can mean missing funding
Accountants track and manage key dates on your behalf

5. Communicating with AusIndustry and ATO

If questions arise during review, your accountant handles the correspondence professionally

Tips for Startups Seeking Grants in NSW

- Start Early: It takes time to prepare documentation
- Track Spending Carefully: Use cloud accounting software like Xero
- Be Audit-Ready: Keep all supporting documents and contracts
- Review Grant Guidelines Closely: Ensure full eligibility before applying
- Partner with a Specialist Accountant: Preferably one experienced in startup funding

Why Local Insight Matters

A Sydney-based accountant understands the local economic environment, council-specific programs, and nuances of state-led grants. This geographic context provides:

Faster identification of niche or sector-specific support
Established relationships with local grant advisors
Accurate budgeting that reflects the Sydney cost of doing business

Why Choose Berzy Chartered Accountants for Superannuation Support?

Accessing grants is not just about free money—it’s about fuelling your startup’s growth with confidence. With the help of a proactive Sydney accountant, startups can unlock valuable incentives, optimise their tax strategy, and reduce the stress of navigating complex application processes.

Contact Berzy Chartered Accountants today to learn how we can help your seasonal business thrive.

Berzy Chartered Accountants & Mortgage Brokers are an accounting firm committed to delivering comprehensive financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses to achieve stability and confidence in their financial future