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Innovation Centre makes an impact
17 October 2009
From the outset, the University of the Sunshine Coast has positioned itself as a major driver for the diversification of the region’s economy. That was in response to strong community input into the role of the University and that USC contribute to solving the issue of business fragility.
Thus, in 2002, the University supported by all levels of Government and the private sector, established the Innovation Centre to support the start-up and growth of knowledge economy and technology based businesses. The University continues to be the major sponsor, with annual help from the State Government.
To date, the Innovation Centre has supported the start-up and growth of over 55 businesses and created over 400 jobs in sectors such as ICT, clean technology and creative industries.
The Innovation Centre is currently home to 29 private businesses, from start-ups to more established businesses. The businesses benefit from serviced office space, fast speed internet and a structured business development program. Having 29 businesses under one roof creates a dynamic environment and entrepreneurial network. Many of the businesses also benefit from tapping in to student talent - in projects such as market research, software development and online marketing and from collaborative research projects with the University.
The Centre also provides a visiting office base to four professional service firms, two lawyers, and IP and Patent Attorney and R&D Consultant. These firms offer specialist knowledge, skills and networks which are boosting the growth of businesses across the region, not just in the Innovation Centre. For example, the R&D Consulting firm has delivered around $400,000 R&D tax concession funding to businesses in the Innovation Centre and over $3M to businesses in the region over the last 12 months.
The Innovation Centre team are increasingly working with high potential businesses across the wider region, for example a nanotechnology business based near the Airport and a quality systems business in Maleny.
The Centre runs an active business events and short course program, with around 20 events per year, open to businesses across the region. To date, nearly almost 5,000 delegates have attended these events and courses on topics such as raising investment capital, going global and taking your business online.
As a region, the Sunshine Coast needs to continue to make major efforts to develop a more diversified economic base and deliver a more sustainable future. The Innovation Centre is making an important contribution to this agenda. For more information on the Innovation Centre, see www.innovation-centre.com.au
Professor Paul Thomas AM is Vice-Chancellor and President at the University of the Sunshine Coast.