Innovation and ICT Minister Dave Kelly has today announced the finalists of the 2017 WA Innovator of the Year program.

The awards have run since 2006, and acknowledge and reward exceptional innovators in Western Australia who have developed an outstanding innovative product, technology or service.

The innovation must be at the emerging or growth phase of development, and demonstrate an economic, social or environmental benefit for the State.

There are five finalists in the Emerging Category, which is for innovations that are yet to generate revenue. Three companies have been shortlisted for the Growth Category, which recognises innovations already generating revenue.

There are also three finalists for the Young Innovator of the Year award, which is open to high school students taking part in the Just Start IT program.

Winners will be announced at the program's awards ceremony on November 1, 2017.

The list of finalists is available at www.jtsi.wa.gov.au/wa-ioty