The convention trailblazer grant, now in its eighth year, offers successful applicants up to $5,000 to cover the costs of attending an international conference, with the funding able to be used for registration fees and travel expenses.
Those applying for the grant must be willing to work with the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), which manages the program, on creating a bid to bring their chosen international meeting to Brisbane.
Those working in the science, health, agricultural, technology and advanced manufacturing sectors will be considered for the grant.
“This grant backs Brisbane’s best and brightest to make connections overseas and then bring those opportunities home,” said Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
“Major conferences fill our hotels, restaurants and venues, support local jobs and bring new ideas and opportunities to Brisbane.
“Since 2017, our Trailblazers have helped secure at least twelve international conferences, generating an estimated $13 million for Brisbane’s economy.
“It also puts Brisbane researchers and businesses in the same room as global leaders in their field, opening doors to new partnerships, investment and ideas.
“If you are leading the way in your field, we want to back you to help bring the world’s best to Brisbane.”
BEDA’s chief executive, Anthony Ryan, called business events “one of the most effective ways to connect Brisbane’s priority industries with international decision-makers, investors and collaborators”.
“We encourage researchers, academics and industry professionals with strong international standing to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to expand their networks, raise their profiles and create new opportunities for collaboration.
“Every conference secured for Brisbane creates opportunities to attract new knowledge, investment and talent, while giving local experts access to global insights and connections that can benefit their organisations and careers.”
Applications for the Lord Mayor’s Convention Trailblazer Grant are open now until February 26, 2027, with successful applicants to be notified the following month.
Those applying should be targeting attendance at a conference in the 2027-2028 financial year.
