1. improve the reward/risk ratio of new ventures
2. open up new financing options for early stage ventures
3. lead to a greater pool of qualified entrepreneurs
4. increase entrepreneurship in cultures where substantial social penalties are attached to "failure".

The Victorian Government today launched the Small Technologies Action Plan, investing $10.5 million to delivery new initiatives aim at increasing the adoption of small technologies by Victorian companies.

Included in the program to be released in mid 2010, is the allocation of $6.5 million towards a voucher program. These vouchers may be exchanged for a variety of services which assist in the uptake of small technologies ranging from patent searches to accessing small technologies facilities.

To download the action plan, please visit www.business.vic.gov.au/

The Small Technologies Cluster Ltd (STC) invites you or a representative of your organisation to be part of an Australian trade fair to the US National Science and Technology Institute (NSTI) Nanotech Conference and Expo 2010 from June 21-25 at the Anaheim Convention Centre, Anaheim, CA.  

As the world's largest annual meeting around emerging technologies, attendance is expected to be around 5,000 delegates and 350 exhibitors – representing industry, academia and government from all over the world.  The event co-locates Nanotech Expo 2010, Cleantech Expo 2010, Microtech Expo 2010, BioNanotech Expo 2010 and TechConnect Summit and Expo 2010.  Details can be found at: www.nsti.org 

STC is being co-sponsored by the Victorian State Government and, with the support of the Victorian Government Business Office in the US, will provide the support infrastructure and services to market your products/services at an Australia booth as well as the opportunity for introductions to potential partners and investors.  

If you would like to register your interest please email contact Vanessa Heuser at Vanessa@stc-melbourne.com

The conference is aimed at : · Raising awareness and interest in cleantech and potential applications. · Stimulate dialogue and regional engagement across Asia-Pacific between primary stakeholders regarding cleantech opportunities. · Showcase current Australian cleantech technologies, products and processes. · Provide a focus on core areas that could benefit from cleantech applications ie energy and water. For more details