In a significant development towards bolstering Central Australia's innovation ecosystem, the Innovation Central Australia Network (ICAN) hosted its inaugural committee meeting, marking the official start to this groundbreaking initiative.
As the first order of business, Edan Baxter from Spinifex Valley was elected Chairperson for the Network. Baxter brings with him a wealth of experience and a robust vision for a vibrant innovation ecosystem in Central Australia. With the backing of the Territory’s Innovation unit and the Department of Industry, Tourism, and Trade (DITT), the newly established committee, under Baxter's leadership, promises to play a pivotal role in realising the goals of the Territory Business Innovation Strategy 2.0.
Launched on 18 July 2023 the new committee is hitting the ground running, the collaborative Network is bringing together a diverse group of individuals, businesses, academia, and government agencies with a shared passion for driving innovation in Central Australia.
Baxter voiced his eagerness to ignite the region's innovative spirit, he invites Central Australians to contribute: ‘If you have an interest in exploring ideas, conducting research, trialling projects, or being a bit entrepreneurial, we’d love to hear from you!’. ICAN is an opportunity to participate in building a sustainable and vibrant regional Innovation Ecosystem.
ICAN aims to support innovation by engaging and recruiting individuals and organisations, identifying opportunities, offering business development and commercialisation support, and spearheading collaborative innovation projects in the region. To ensure that a broad spectrum of voices and insights are included, the Committee is welcoming additional Expressions of Interest until 30 October.
Over the coming months, the ICAN committee will be developing its governance, priorities, projects, and exploring a provisional calendar of events. To learn more about Network and how to get involved, please contact:
- Jodie Mason, Department Representative, at innovation@nt.gov.au or call 08 8951 8550
- you can also reach out to Edan Baxter, Network Chairperson, on 0402 029 968.