Liverpool to host startup weekend for Spark South West 2018

28 September 2018

Liverpool City Council and Vibewire are calling on the region’s brightest minds to come together for Spark South West – an intensive weekend of collaboration to find innovative and creative social solutions for Liverpool.

Running from Friday, 26 October, to Sunday 28 October at Western Sydney University’s Liverpool campus, this will be the first time Liverpool hosts a Spark Festival event.

Vibewire executive director Laura Rojas said she was excited to see the end result of 48 hours of collaborative problem-solving on this year’s theme – Liveability.

“Hackathon events are the lifeblood of the Australian innovation ecosystem-building capability, providing vital experience and generating networks, connections and showcasing the work of innovative young Australians,” Ms Rojas said.

“If you’re studying social sciences, technology, engineering, if you’re an entrepreneur with an idea, a community member passionate about where you live – this is the event for you. We want your ideas and your input.”

Supporting the teams will be a series of experienced mentors. Some will be experts in their field, while others will be entrepreneurs who have successfully started their own business.

Teams will be assigned on the day and will be in the running for exciting prizes, including the chance to further develop their ideas with experienced consultants.

Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said Council was proud to partner with Vibewire to bring the rapidly-growing Spark Festival to Liverpool.

“Liverpool is growing and changing rapidly and we’re committed to creative solutions for modern city living,” Mayor Waller said.

“This is the first time Spark Festival has come to Liverpool. With three major universities making their presence felt in our CBD and a fourth to come at the Aerotropolis surrounding Western Sydney Airport, Liverpool truly is a learning city and attracting events like Spark adds to this reputation.”

Liverpool Council and Vibewire are partnering with University of Wollongong, Western Sydney University, TAFE NSW, Sydney School of Entrepreneurship, Jobs for NSW, Regional Development Australia, Business Connect, Ingham Institute of Applied Medical Research and Settlement Services International.

To register your interest visit: http://sparkfestival.co/program/view/125/spark-southwest-startup-weekend