Mr Doron Ben-Meir has been appointed inaugural CEO of Commercialisation Australia, which helps researchers and entrepreneurs turn ideas into dollars and jobs.

Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr announced the appointment in Melbourne while opening Collaborating for Success – the inaugural conference of the Government’s innovation advisory bodies.

“Mr Ben-Meir will play an essential role in building Australia’s innovation capacity and ensuring that great Australian ideas are developed in this country rather than going offshore,” Senator Carr said.

“He has over 20 years’ first-hand experience in the venture capital market, building technology-based companies, assisting early-stage entrepreneurs to develop their businesses, and supporting the efforts of innovators to commercialise their intellectual property.

“Having founded and supported start-up companies, he has an intimate understanding of practical challenges they face and how to overcome them.”

With funding of $196 million over its first four years, the Federal Government’s Commercialisation Australia gives businesses access to a range of measures tailored to help them bring their innovations to market.

“Increasing our focus on entrepreneurship, knowledge-based industries, and new business growth is the key to renewing the Australian economy and providing quality jobs.”

Commercialisation Australia is now open to applications.

For more information, including how to apply, visit www.commercialisationaustralia.gov.au or phone the hotline on 13 22 56.