A visiting program by the City of Sydney connecting hundreds of budding tech start-ups with successful global entrepreneurs had received federal government funding for the first time
The visiting entrepreneurs program gives Sydney-based entrepreneurs free access to internationally renowned leaders in the start-up sector through workshops, talks and seminars. Almost 3,000 people have attended the program’s events since it launched in November 2017.
The visiting entrepreneur program will run from 22 October to 2 November and will target businesses keen to use technology and innovation to tackle social problems, improve communities, provide access to employment and help the environment.
“Sydney’s start-ups contribute $500 billion to the Australian economy and we are home to 40 per cent of Australia’s start-ups, so it is fantastic to see the Federal Government supporting this vital sector,” the Lord Mayor Clover Moore said. “The visiting entrepreneur program is an important part our work to promote our tech start-up ecosystem around the world and ensure Sydney remains the start-up capital of Australia.”
The most recent available data shows a phenomenal growth in IT professionals in Sydney, IT jobs in the area increased by over 7,500 to over 20,000 in the last 5 years or over a 60 per cent growth.
“It is fantastic that this year’s program will focus on social impact and sustainability – supporting businesses working to improve the wellbeing and resilience of our communities. I look forward to announcing more of the program in the coming months,” the Lord Mayor said.
The City’s visiting entrepreneur program has held workshops, seminars, talks and mentoring sessions featuring internationally-recognised business leaders.
“Sharing our experiences and unique approaches to economic development is critical to building more inclusive innovation ecosystems,” said noted entrepreneur Vicki Saunders who participated in the program. “In my experience, putting entrepreneurs and innovators in a room together and setting them free to connect, talk and collaborate is the only path to changing the world.”
