From HARVEST to High-Impact: Mat’s $3M Breakthrough in Bee Innovation
We’re proud to celebrate the success of HARVEST alumni Dr Mathew Welch, founder of Red Earth Pollen, who is making waves in Australia’s innovation ecosystem.
Recently featured in PerthNow, Mat and his team secured a $3 million grant to advance research into propolis, commonly known as “bee glue”, a natural substance with exciting potential for health and therapeutic applications.
Propolis is used by bees to protect their hives from disease, and researchers are now unlocking its powerful antimicrobial and bioactive properties. Mat’s vision is to build Australia’s first end-to-end ecosystem for extracting and developing propolis into high-value health products, shifting the industry from exporting raw materials to creating globally competitive innovations.
This milestone is a testament not only to Mat’s leadership, but also to the growing impact of WA-based innovators tackling global challenges through science, sustainability, and smart commercialisation.
Through the HARVEST program, we support founders like Mat, helping turn bold ideas into real-world impact. His journey highlights exactly what’s possible when innovation, industry, and ambition come together.
We can’t wait to see what’s next!