Startup entrepreneurs take centre stage in Sydney

Startup entrepreneurs will take to the stage of Sydney Town Hall in a bid to launch their business ideas, reach global markets and attract funding from international investors.

The City of Sydney will open up the historic venue to the global startup generator and investor group Antler on Thursday 7 November for a demo day that’s open to the public.

As part of the inaugural Sydney startup program, a select group of 12 local enterprises that have each received $100,000 in pre-seed funding will now be given the chance to pitch for capital on a global scale.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the City’s continued support for tech startups will help grow the local industry and further enhance Sydney’s position as a global city.

“Through our Tech Startups Action Plan, we’re keen to create opportunities for entrepreneurs to increase their business skills, access mentors and enhance their networks,” the Lord Mayor said.

“Central to Sydney’s standing as an innovative capital city is our ability to nurture, attract and support global talent, so we’re working with Antler to help create an environment where startups can access investment, talent and a skilled support network.”

The event will include an international keynote speaker, a startup expo and mentor sessions for entrepreneurs, and is expected to attract up to 1,000 people, including local and international investors. The business pitch event will also be livestreamed to an international audience.

Antler is an early stage venture capital fund that launched in Sydney in March. The new Sydney program is expected to support 800 founders create 200 new businesses and 4,000 jobs over the next five years.

Antler ANZ Managing Partner, Bede Moore said: “Through this demo day, we aim to support the growth of the startup ecosystem and enhance Sydney's positioning as an innovative city where tech startups can grow and scale into global businesses.”

Partners and sponsors supporting the Antler program and Demo Day event include Deloitte, Gilbert + Tobin, and Tank Stream Labs.

Where: Sydney Town Hall, 483 George Street, Sydney When: Thursday 7 November Time: 5pm–7.30pm Information and tickets: eventbrite.com.au/e/antler-demo-day-tickets

Antler is recruiting for its second Sydney program in January 2020. The startup generator will accept up to 100 individuals to build global businesses. Visit https://www.antler.co/sydney for more information.

For media inquiries or images, contact Belinda Wallis. Phone 0467 810 160 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Julia Lenton. Phone 0410 748 039 or email [email protected]