The Cook Government is launching a new initiative aimed at helping Western Australian companies break into the US market through its Global Growth Accelerator Program for Critical Technologies. Announced by Innovation and Digital Economy Minister Stephen Dawson, the program is set to connect selected start-ups and scale-ups with US industry leaders, potential customers, and investors. Applications are now open, welcoming participation from companies in critical technologies, as well as sectors like mining, energy, and dual-use applications.
A Global Launchpad for Western Australian Innovations
Designed to prepare WA companies for a successful entry into the US market, the accelerator program spans three months, combining virtual and in-person events. Firms selected for this initiative will gain access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and key insights to refine their go-to-market strategies. This comprehensive preparation will culminate at the renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) 2025 in Austin, Texas, providing participants an invaluable platform to showcase their innovations to a global audience.
The program structure includes:
- Three-Month Duration: Intensive support through virtual and in-person modules.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to US industry stakeholders and potential strategic partners.
- SXSW 2025 Participation: A chance to display their tech to an international audience in Texas.
Minister Dawson expressed the program’s intent to spotlight WA’s innovative capabilities, particularly in automation, robotics, and remote operations, which have garnered international recognition. The program reflects a strategic push to extend WA’s critical technologies sector into high-impact global markets.
Critical Technology at the Forefront of the Program
Critical technology companies are a central focus of this initiative, aligning with WA’s strong foundation in automation, robotics, and remote tech operations. According to Dawson, the Cook Government sees immense value in giving these businesses the tools and exposure to grow internationally. The program also aims to attract companies from mining and energy tech fields, given WA’s established presence in these sectors and their dual-use applications, making them ideal candidates for global expansion.
WA’s critical technologies industry is expanding rapidly, and this program presents a unique opportunity for local firms to:
- Access Resources and Mentorship: Tailored to their needs in scaling to US standards.
- Develop Market Strategies: Specific to US industry demands and regulatory environments.
- Form Strategic Partnerships: With US-based leaders to strengthen their global footprint.
“The Cook Government’s US Accelerator Program is a fantastic opportunity for WA companies to gain international knowledge,” Dawson remarked. “With our innovation ecosystem increasingly recognized globally, this program aims to highlight WA talent and put them on the world stage.”
From Virtual Mentorship to SXSW 2025: What the Program Offers
The Global Growth Accelerator Program begins in December 2024, running through March 2025 and culminating at SXSW. This dual approach—blending virtual mentorship with an in-person capstone—equips participants with essential insights into US market dynamics. The selection process is now open, and successful applicants will benefit from a series of program phases designed to refine their business approach and prepare them for long-term success in the competitive US market.
Participants can expect to:
- Engage in Workshops and Mentoring Sessions: Virtual modules focusing on US market entry.
- Develop a US Market Strategy: With guidance from experienced mentors and US business leaders.
- Showcase at SXSW 2025: A high-visibility platform to engage with global investors and industry experts.
The final showcase at SXSW offers WA companies an unmatched platform to reach an audience that includes potential investors, partners, and industry leaders in technology, media, and innovation sectors. The Cook Government’s partnership with Invest and Trade Western Australia aims to maximize the program’s reach and impact, helping WA firms leverage new growth avenues and gain recognition in one of the world’s largest technology markets.