The Welcome to Ipswich Central: Business Incentive Program aims to financially support retail, arts, creative, food, or hospitality businesses to establish a physical presence in Ipswich Central.

The program is designed to support the vision that Ipswich Central is the Cultural Hub and Beating Heart of the Ipswich Community by attracting a diverse range of businesses.

Successful applicants can receive reimbursement of up to $4,000 (excluding GST) for expenses such as shop fit-outs, furniture and equipment, and point of sale systems.
The total funding pool is capped at $20,000 and is available on a rolling basis until the funds are exhausted.

Eligible businesses must have commenced a minimum 12-month lease after 1 July 2024 and before 9 June 2025, have an appropriate business registration (ABN), and align with the vision for Ipswich Central.

Applications open on Monday 2 September 2024 and will be assessed on a rolling basis until the funds are exhausted. Once approved, businesses can claim reimbursement for eligible expenses three months prior to 1 July 2024, with notification of approval expected within 14 days of application submission.

It's important to note that submission of an application does not guarantee participation, and certain expenses such as subscription and merchant fees, advertising, and professional services fees are ineligible for reimbursement.

Applicants must agree to the program's terms and conditions and provide evidence of their financial contribution where required.