AI & Society Challenge

How might we support the Western Australian communities to access the knowledge, skills, technology and opportunities needed to thrive in an AI-enabled future?

Purpose

How might we support Western Australian communities to access the knowledge, skills, technology and opportunities needed to thrive in an AI-enabled future?

Artificial Intelligence is transforming how people learn, work, create and solve problems. It is creating new opportunities for founders, innovators, organisations and communities to accelerate ideas, improve productivity and deliver greater impact.

The Meshpoints AI & Society Challenge seeks collaborative initiatives that strengthen AI capability, expand access to emerging technologies, and create more inclusive pathways for Western Australians to participate in and shape an AI-enabled future—regardless of sector, stage or postcode.

View funding guidelinesApply for the Challenge
Why this matters

AI is rapidly becoming part of everyday life, but access to the skills, knowledge, tools and opportunities needed to benefit from it is not equally distributed.

While Western Australia's innovation ecosystem continues to grow stronger, research shows capability development and knowledge sharing remain key opportunities. At the same time, founders, organisations and communities are navigating rapid technological change, with many identifying AI skills and awareness as significant barriers to adoption.

Without intentional efforts to build capability and improve access, emerging technologies risk widening existing gaps between those able to participate and those left behind.

Through this Challenge, Meshpoints aims to support initiatives that build confidence, strengthen collaboration and ensure more Western Australians can engage with—and help shape—the opportunities created by AI.

Apply for the Challenge

What we're excited to support

We're looking for collaborative initiatives that help more Western Australians understand, access and apply AI in meaningful ways.

Projects may focus on education, entrepreneurship, community participation, technology access, industry collaboration or new models that strengthen capability across the innovation ecosystem. Examples include, but aren't limited to:

Building AI Capability

Initiatives that help founders, organisations and communities build the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to understand and apply AI responsibly. Examples may include AI literacy programs, workshops, capability building, responsible AI education, practical training or knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Expanding Access & Participation

Projects that create more inclusive pathways for Western Australians to engage with emerging technologies, particularly for regional communities, First Nations peoples and groups facing barriers to participation. Examples may include community engagement, access to AI tools and expertise and inclusive learning opportunities.

Enabling Innovation Through AI

Initiatives that explore how AI can accelerate innovation, entrepreneurship and positive social outcomes across Western Australia. Examples may include founder programs, AI experimentation, technology demonstrations, industry collaborations, emerging technology exploration or AI-enabled social innovation.

More than just grant funding

Alongside grant funding, successful applicants will receive access to additional support intended to help projects succeed and deliver meaningful outcomes.

Join a community-based cohort

Connect with a cohort of like-minded organisations to share learnings, challenges, and peer support throughout the challenge.

Coworking at Riff for a base in the CBD

Enjoy access to coworking space to support collaboration, productivity, and connection.

Facilitated sessions and check-ins

Participate in structured sessions and regular check-ins to support progress, reflection, and accountability.

Marketing support to enhance your program's reach

Receive marketing support along the way to help amplify your program, attract participants, and increase visibility.

Discount for event space bookings

Access Spacecubed event spaces at a 20% discount to support program delivery, workshops, or community engagement.

Be featured in a public Challenge Outcomes report

Have your project and outcomes showcased in a publicly available report highlighting impact and learnings.

Key Challenge Dates

These dates outline the process for Meshpoints funding, including when challenges open, close and are assessed by an independent panel.

  • 23 July: EOIs & applications open

  • 27 August: EOIs close

  • September: Funding awarded

  • September: Projects commence

  • Project Duration: Up to 6 months