3 minute read
A decade of innovation and opportunity: celebrating Silicon Coast’s 10th anniversary
As Silicon Coast marks its 10th Anniversary, the organisation looks back on a decade of fostering innovation and forward-thinking within the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Australia. Their journey, underpinned by the theme ‘Turning Opportunities into Reality,’ reflects a commitment to building on a strong legacy and propelling the region into a future of economic prosperity.
Silicon Coast has been pivotal in crafting an environment where entrepreneurship, collaboration, and innovation flourish. Silicon Coast and Forward Fest cofounder Craig ‘CJ’ Josic says their mission has always been to co-create the most innovative and entrepreneurial region in Australia.
"We're not just celebrating past achievements; we're gearing up for a future where our community's clarity, connection, capability, collaboration, and advocacy shine even brighter,” CJ says.
At the heart of Silicon Coast's strategy lies a series of signature events such as Forward Fest, Collaboration Lives Here, and Startup and Scaleup Weekends, designed to encourage economic growth and technological advancement. Forward Fest stands out as a transformative business festival that aligns with the organisation's annual theme, providing a launchpad for learning and growth.
"Forward Fest is a catalyst for innovation, driving economic recovery and enhancing employment opportunities across Southeast Queensland," CJ says.
Silicon Coast's impact is further amplified through its ecosystem leadership group, a collective of key stakeholders dedicated to executing a shared vision that is both strategic and measured. By fostering a unified brand identity, promoting targeted marketing campaigns, and leveraging connections within industry organisations, Silicon Coast has positioned the Sunshine Coast as more than a tourist destination— it's the entrepreneurial capital of the region.
Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Julia Spicer highlights the importance of ongoing support. "It's critical that we support organisations like Silicon Coast beyond an event. The dedication shown, and the willingness of the government and Advance Queensland to collaborate with regional organisations, is a testament to Silicon Coast's influence,” Julia says.
As Silicon Coast embarks on its next chapter, the focus is on leadership, sustainability, equity, investment, growth, business retention and expansion. These pillars are not just goals but a promise to the entrepreneurial community that the organisation will continue to be a source of support and guidance.
Looking toward Forward Fest 2024, the expectation is to build on the previous year's success and create an even more impactful festival. Will Shrapnel, founder of HeliMods, encapsulates the sentiment of the community when he says, "These events that Silicon Coast run create more conversations that lead to more ideas that then scale our region's capability and capacity in the innovation ecosystem."
Silicon Coast's decade-long dedication has proven that with the right support, collaboration, and vision, turning opportunities into reality is not just a theme—it's a living, breathing part of the entrepreneurial journey on the Sunshine Coast.
Join the celebration and the movement and be part of turning the next decade's opportunities into your reality.
