Ten NSW startup companies will pitch to an exclusive audience of NSW Government leaders and corporate decision makers tonight at Accelerator, a showcase event at the NSW Parliament to launch the inaugural StartupWeek Sydney (23-30 October).
Minister for Industry, Resources and Energy, Anthony Roberts, and Minister for Innovation, Victor Dominello, said Accelerator would highlight exciting products, including a palm scanner that can read unique patterns in a person’s hand to confirm their identity, and an innovative online platform disrupting corporate catering by enabling local boutique food businesses access to the market.
“Startups are key to our future economic growth and that’s why the NSW Government is investing to create an environment which will attract and grow the world’s best startups right here in NSW,” Mr Roberts said.
“Our Innovate NSW and Knowledge Hubs programs are great examples of how we have been improving and adjusting our support as our startup sector grows.
“Each of the startups being showcased tonight has been nominated by our five industry-led Knowledge Hubs and the pitching event is a great launch pad into the inaugural StartupWeek Sydney of which the NSW Government is a major supporter.”
Mr. Dominello said the Government had an important role in helping address one of the biggest barriers facing every startup business – finding the right connections to the right people and organisations that can help them grow.
“The NSW Government has gathered some of the key influencers from corporate Australia, government procurement and policy making in one room to meet with some of our brightest entrepreneurial talent”.
National Manager of Startup Week Sydney, Michelle Williams, said Accelerator demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to facilitating collaboration between government, industry and the startup community.
“With a new focus on innovation and entrepreneurialism to promote future job growth, Sydney’s startup community has never before enjoyed this level of interest, momentum and support,” Ms Williams said.