In an effort to promote innovation and keep Australian talent in the country, Intel, Deloitte, ABC and the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) jointly have launched a scheme to support fledgling digital content developers.

Dubbed the AIMIA Innovatives Program, the scheme is expected to help content developers in the creation, development and marketing of a range of digital ideas that could include blogs, eBusinesses and digital TV programs.

“Too many solid local digital ideas either leave these shores without carrying the credit of being Australian or else die on scrap bits of paper because the creator lacks either the know-how or support network to bring them to commercial life,” said Guy Gadney, president of AIMIA.

“AIMIA Innovatives handpicks digital ideas that have solid commercial potential. Our founding members, all leaders in their field, will then support the designer to develop, build and market a fully-formed prototype of the idea to national and international audiences.”

As part of the program, Intel will provide technology, marketing, hardware support and mentoring to the chosen designs and developers. ABC has pledged development support and Australian output platforms for domestic distribution, audience insights and product mentoring.

Additionally, Deloitte will provide the expertise of its specialist online advisory and implementing practice, Eclipse, which will provide the framework to capture and develop ideas.

None of the three commercial organisations are expected to benefit directly from any projects undertaken through the AIMIA program.

The AIMIA Innovatives Program is currently inviting digital content developers to submit their ideas to the program committee by May 1. Only one idea will be selected from the first round of submissions; however, AIMIA expects to release more submission dates throughout the year.