Councils partner with State to boost innovation

Noosa’s bid to secure a slice of the State’s new innovation fund has paid off, with the announcement, this week, of $500,000 for both the Noosa Council and Sunshine Coast Council areas.

The Advancing Regional Innovation Program (ARIP) will match the region’s planned $500,000 investment in innovation programs and activities, dollar-for dollar.

The Sunshine Coast, including Noosa, is the first Queensland region to secure funding in the $6 million State-wide program. The fund was launched on Wednesday by Innovation Minister Leeanne Enoch, along with Mayors Tony Wellington and Mark Jamieson, at the Innovation Centre in Sippy Downs.

A consortium of 26 partners, including Noosa and Sunshine Coast Councils, will invest around $500,000 in innovation initiatives over the next three years.

The funds will enable the two councils, as well as players such as Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast, to bring together entrepreneurs, business leaders and key industries to develop initiatives that strengthen the region’s economy.

“The ARIP funding will benefit the entire Sunshine Coast region,” Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington said.

“It will help fund a Regional Innovation Coordinator, as well as online platforms, plus activities and events that showcase the region and support greater connections and collaboration,” he said.

“It’s a great fit with Noosa Council’s own business innovation program, including our upcoming Innovation Masterclass. This economic development program is designed to give businesses the tools needed to identify, develop and test new ideas.

“The fact the State has chosen the Sunshine Coast to launch this program recognises how popular our locale is with entrepreneurs. It’s also a great endorsement of the work both our Councils are doing to encourage innovation.”

9 June 2017