Croc Pitch 2023, Northern Australia's premier pitch competition, took place at the recent Developing the North Conference, and the Territory's own AusNorth Trading made their mark. While QLD based Agricultural Robotics snagged the top prize with their groundbreaking robotic mango harvesting solution, AusNorth Trading's unique aquaculture innovation won them a runner-up position, including a $33,000 grant from the Northern Territory Government's Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, and a much-coveted place in the Business Innovation Program (BIP).
Waving the flag for the Territory, AusNorth Trading is focused on a pioneering venture to farm and fatten mud crabs for export. This novel approach to aquaculture places AusNorth at the cutting edge of agricultural advancements.
The BIP is designed to propel innovation in the Territory, and provides participants with a platform to accelerate their development and impact. Through offering mentorship from an innovation advisor, funding towards development, and access to critical investment and networking opportunities, BIP has a significant role to play in diversifying the Territory's Innovation Ecosystem and attracting additional investment. With its three-stage journey from planning to development to commercialisation, the program will provide AusNorth with the tools to refine and scale up their innovation.
"We're thrilled to guide AusNorth Trading in their growth journey through the BIP program," said Harley Paroulakis, CEO of Paspalis. "Their pioneering initiatives not only align with our goal of benefiting Australia’s North but also promise to reshape the broader agricultural landscape. The BIP program will equip them with the necessary tools to refine and expand their ventures."
Croc Pitch, hosted annually by Darwin Innovation Hub, is an unparalleled opportunity for startups to showcase their innovative ideas, products, or technologies in front of an expert panel and a live audience. The event attracts a diverse spread of participants including entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, and investors. Paspalis Innovation Investment Fund is the primary sponsor, ensuring that the platform continues to fuel innovative talent and cultivate breakthrough solutions for Australia's North.