HMS Equipment (HMSE), part of the HMS Group of Companies Australia, was recently awarded a Government grant from the Australian Government’s Entrepreneurs Programme, from the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.
HMSE has designed and commercialised the HMS Mini Loader that collects fallen coal from under working conveyors. This innovative machine not only reduces the down time with stoppages but also ensures heating does not occur with excessive spillages, and therefore removes the risk involved with cleaning under conveyors.
The mini loader can work on any site including the construction industry and has a wide range of attachments including a road sweeper, plough, concrete mixer. It can also be operated by remote control, an essential element for user safety and efficiency.
HMSE received $388,484 as a funding grant under the Accelerating Commercialisation element of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme.
A Government initiative, Accelerating Commercialisation encourages and assists small and medium businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers to commercialise novel products, processes and services.
Industry and Science Minister Ian Macfarlane said the funding within the Entrepreneurs’ Programme will offer a real boost to business competitiveness and represents a strong investment in Australia’s growth sectors.
“Australia needs to turn our great ideas into commercial products to keep up with the global economy,” he said.
“The Government’s Entrepreneurs Programme supports innovation in Australian businesses and helps them overcome commercialisation challenges when bringing novel products, processes and services into the marketplace.”
“Commercialisation drives business growth and competitiveness while also delivering national economic benefits by helping to ensure that Australia’s wealth of intellectual property is more effectively commercialised.”
Managing Director, Jamie Howard, said that the grant has given HMSE a boost for exporting to China but also gives local manufacturing hope as they use suppliers in the Hunter.
“I am a firm believer in giving work locally and it has been especially pleasing to be able to support other HunterNet members,” Jamie said.
The mini loader has given HMS Group the leverage to grow their business further, allowing the company to continue to develop and innovate and continue to employ Hunter people.
“The most difficult process is commercialisation and with the assistance of the Australian Government through providing this export grant has given us the confidence and support to move forward with commercialising their product in to China,” Jamie continued.
HMSE is currently also in negotiation with South Africa and the United States.
Image | Jamie Howard with the Mini Loader
