BECOME A MEMBER

|

MEF
Memberships

Your MEF Growth Pathway

Every manufacturer’s journey is different, but no one has to go it alone.

MEF membership connects you to a thriving ecosystem designed to help you start, strengthen, and scale your business. From free community access through the Manufacturer Membership, to targeted capability-building in MAP, and strategic growth in MAP+, each level builds on the next. Wherever you are on your journey, MEF provides the network, knowledge, and support to help you go further together.

Explore where you fit on the MEF pathway below.

Our Manufacturing Memberships

Sponsored Manufacturer

Membership

$0
per year
Connection. Collaboration. Community.

Stay connected to the Sunshine Coast manufacturing ecosystem.

This sponsored membership gives you access to MEF events, updates, and opportunities across the region. It’s an easy way to meet peers, stay informed, and see how collaboration is strengthening local manufacturing capability and competitiveness.

This tier is offered at no charge thanks to the support of our partners and volunteers who share a commitment to helping manufacturers succeed.
JOIN NOW

MAP

Manufacturing Advancement Program

$500
per year
Practical support for real manufacturing growth.

MAP is for manufacturers focused on improving and growing their business.

The program connects you with trusted local partners offering discounted or sponsored support across grants, systems, IP, forecasting, and brand strategy. All curated to lift productivity and unlock new opportunities.

MAP members also gain access to the Pay-It-Forward Fund, supporting productivity initiatives through community reinvestment.
JOIN MAP NOW

MAP+

The Manufacturer's Strategy Circle

$10,000
per year
Strategy. Productivity. Growth.

MAP+ is for manufacturers ready to scale with intent.

It is a peer-driven strategy circle where founders and leaders work on real challenges, share experience, and drive measurable outcomes together.

Through monthly in-person sessions, members gain focus, accountability, and strategic clarity alongside peers who understand the realities of manufacturing leadership.
EXPRESS INTEREST

Which level is right for you?

Start with the Sponsored Manufacturer Membership to connect and stay informed.
Strengthen your capability through MAP.
Scale strategically through MAP+.

Join MEF today and take your next step in the journey of manufacturing excellence.

Compare Membership Options

You can think of the MEF pathway as Start → Strengthen → Scale.
Each level builds on the next, helping you grow with connection, capability, and confidence.

Sponsored Manufacturer

Start
FREE
per year

Best for manufacturers wanting to connect, stay informed, and be part of the regional manufacturing movement.

MAP

Strengthen
$500
per year

Best for manufacturers ready to build capability and strengthen their business foundations.

MAP +

Scale
$10,000
per year

Best for manufacturers ready to scale, lead, and shape the future of advanced manufacturing on the Sunshine Coast.

Inclusion in Manufacturer Capability Directory
✓
✓
✓
Ongoing access to MEF community and support
✓
✓
✓
Access to MEF events and networking
✓
✓
✓
MEF newsletter and updates
✓
✓
✓
Access to partner-supported sessions (grants, finance, IP, legal, etc.)
x
✓
✓
Eligibility for Pay It Forward Fund grants
x
✓
✓
Invitation to exclusive MAP+ strategy breakfasts
x
x
✓
Peer accountability and support circle
x
x
✓

| Frequently asked questions

Who can become a member of MEF?

Any business involved in or supporting manufacturing on the Sunshine Coast can become a member. Membership is free for manufacturers and $400 per year for non-manufacturers such as service providers, suppliers, or ecosystem allies who share MEF’s vision for a thriving regional manufacturing sector.

Can non-manufacturer members pitch their services to manufacturers?

No. MEF is not a sales or pitching platform. Non-manufacturer members are part of the community to contribute their expertise, insights, and support in ways that help the ecosystem grow. Relationships develop through collaboration and trust, not direct promotion.

What does MEF membership include?

All members gain access to MEF’s monthly in-person events, site visits, and workshops, as well as regular updates and opportunities to connect with others in the regional manufacturing ecosystem. Membership also opens the door to advanced programs such as MAP and MAP+ for those who want deeper capability and strategy support.

How do I know which level of membership is right for me?

If you are a local manufacturer, start with the Manufacturer Membership to connect and stay informed. If you want more tailored support, consider joining MAP for access to sponsored services and practical business development. If you are ready to scale and want strategic accountability with other advanced manufacturers, MAP+ is your next step. If you are not a manufacturer but support the ecosystem, the Non-Manufacturer Membership is for you.

Can I upgrade my membership later?

Yes. Many manufacturers start with the free membership and then join MAP or MAP+ as they grow. You can upgrade at any time based on your needs and readiness.

How are MEF memberships funded?

MEF is a not-for-profit organisation. Membership fees, partnerships, and grants are reinvested directly into programs, events, and initiatives that build the capability and competitiveness of Sunshine Coast manufacturers.

Non-Manufacturer membership

Non-Manufacturer

$400
per year
Support. Connect. Contribute.

For ecosystem allies, suppliers, and supporters who believe in the power of local manufacturing to drive regional prosperity.

As a non-manufacturer member, you’ll be part of the MEF network that is shaping the future of advanced manufacturing on the Sunshine Coast. You’ll gain access to monthly events, connect with industry leaders, and stay informed about emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges within the sector.

Your involvement helps strengthen collaboration across the supply chain and ensures the manufacturing ecosystem continues to thrive, creating benefits that reach far beyond individual businesses.

| Frequently asked questions

Who can join as a Non-Manufacturer Member?

Non-Manufacturer Membership is open to suppliers, service providers, educators, and ecosystem partners who share MEF’s vision for a thriving manufacturing community on the Sunshine Coast.

What does the membership include?

Non-Manufacturer Members receive access to MEF’s monthly events, workshops, and community updates. They are recognised as valued contributors within the regional ecosystem and gain insights into the needs, challenges, and opportunities within local manufacturing.

Can Non-Manufacturer Members promote their products or services?

MEF is not a sales or promotional platform. Non-Manufacturer Members are encouraged to participate in the spirit of collaboration and contribution. Meaningful relationships are built through genuine support and shared purpose, not direct selling.

How does this membership benefit my organisation?

You gain connection and visibility within a respected network that values trust and long-term relationships. You will be part of conversations shaping the future of regional manufacturing, with opportunities to contribute expertise, learn from peers, and build partnerships grounded in shared impact.

How does my membership support the manufacturing community?

Your annual membership fee helps fund programs, workshops, and initiatives that strengthen the capability of local manufacturers. It also supports MEF’s ongoing advocacy, partnerships, and ecosystem-building work that benefits the entire region.

Can I contribute in other ways beyond my membership fee?

Yes. Many Non-Manufacturer Members participate through collaboration, mentoring, education, or contributing to MEF’s Pay It Forward Fund. These contributions help manufacturers access the support they need to grow and innovate.

Are there partnership opportunities for deeper involvement?

Yes. Organisations that want to play a larger role in shaping the future of advanced manufacturing can become MEF Partners. Partnership tiers offer greater collaboration, visibility, and impact across MEF programs and initiatives.

Looking to be part of the team?

We will be happy to meet you.

BECOME A PARTNERCONTACT US

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