Award Purpose:

This competitive award is designed to:

  • Support entrepreneurs and innovators tackling the global challenge of food security.

  • Accelerate the development or commercialisation of products that strengthen Australia’s food exports and food technology, particularly into Asia.

Entry Criteria:

To be eligible, your business should:

  • Operate in the Australian food sector.

  • Be an early-stage, high-growth business with global potential.

  • Be preparing to scale nationally and internationally.

  • Have existing revenue and a clear growth plan.

  • Demonstrate intention to operate in, or export to, Asian markets.

  • Require funding for an innovative project that enhances Australia’s ability to produce food efficiently and sustainably.

  • Disclose any prior private or government funding received.

What the Award Recognises:

The MAD Business Award – Food Innovation celebrates:

  • Product innovation, enhancement, or commercialisation in the Australian food sector.

  • Businesses actively advancing Australia’s role in addressing food security regionally and globally.

Key Dates

  • Entries close: 7 November 2025

  • Assessment & short pitches: November (shortlisted applicants present to the judging panel)

  • Winner announced: by 30 November 2025

Rules and Conditions

  • Applicants must be Australian entities.

  • Applications will be reviewed by a judging panel against the entry criteria and Venture Compass responses.

  • Judges’ decisions are final.

  • The winner will be notified by email and announced via a recorded Zoom call (to be used for future marketing).

  • The winning company will be required to submit a tax invoice to MAD for $50,000 plus GST in order to receive the award funds.

  • Application details may be shared with event sponsors for marketing purposes.

  • Related parties of MAD or the judges are not eligible to enter.

  • The winner must provide quarterly updates on project progress and use of funds.