Innovation & Startups

We are committed to creating an environment that cultivates and supports the development and advancement of entrepreneurship and innovation. If you’ve got an idea, concept or design, our team focuses on growing the innovation ecosystem by furthering access to information, networks, new initiatives and support mechanisms that encourage the next step in the journey towards realisation.

Events & Programs That Support Innovation

Startup Weekend

Annual 2.5-day program for people already in business, who have with an innovative idea, or who want to better understand how to go from ideation to launching a minimal viable product (MVP). Teams work on an idea and develop to being ‘pitch ready’.

Startup Onramp

A James Cook University (Cairns campus) 12-week pre-accelerator program that equips you with the confidence, knowledge, skills and connections to improve your chances to create a successful startup.

Tropical Innovation Festival

An annual event in Cairns that celebrates innovation and entrepreneurship through inspiration, learning and connections. The event is jam-packed with events, masterclasses, lunch and learns, networking, pitching opportunities, mentoring session and a bootcamp. There’s contributions from entrepreneurs, government leaders, investors, innovation visionaries and subject matter experts.

Support Networks

Innovation Journey