Makers Empire is delighted to announce that we have been awarded almost $300,000 in support from the Marshall Liberal Government. The grant will support the roll-out of Makers Empire’s MakeShop project, which aims to advance our 3D design and 3D printing technology and begin pilot programs in more Australian and international schools.
South Australian Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni, said, “COVID-19 has posed a challenge to all levels of business, so it is great to see an innovative South Australian startup navigating these conditions and working to grow its suite of products for domestic and export markets.”
“The Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund provides vital seed funding to enable more businesses — like Makers Empire — to commercialise their great ideas, employ local workers and cement South Australia’s reputation as a place of innovation and excellence in hi-tech and education. The $17.5 million allocated from the RCSF has leveraged $350 million in funding from industry and government,” the Minister added.
South Australian Minister for Education, John Gardner, says the Makers Empire’s MakeShop project is good news for South Australian students, helping to advance manufacturing, design and STEM knowledge in our schools.
“The MakeShop project will enhance existing technology and give primary-aged students access to higher quality 3D printing, allowing them to design and print metal items such as jewellery, key rings and other objects. This enhanced level of sophistication will ensure that the 3D printers that are in our schools can be used as a valuable education tool bringing students ideas to life,” Minister Gardner said.
Makers Empire CEO Jon Soong said, “The RCSF funding will help us test the market potential for MakeShop, which builds on our existing products to offer high-quality 3D prints to schools and parents. Funding will be used to develop the parent/consumer market and refine user experience, as well as test production within Australia, as currently the big 3D print bureaus are all overseas.”
“We are most grateful for this grant, and to the SA Department for Education for partnering with us over the last five years, helping us to refine and improve our products for schools,” Jon added.
