'The INNovation Crowd' launches in Baw Baw

'The INNovation Crowd' launches in Baw Baw

Published on 25 October 2019

A new and exciting initiative supporting innovative local entrepreneurs called ‘The INNovation Crowd’ has officially launched in Baw Baw Shire.

The collaboratively crafted program aims to provide real support to local entrepreneurs at all stages of their business development - from bright ideas to market-ready businesses.

Originally developed by the City of Casey Council and Cardinia Shire Council, the program has now expanded into Baw Baw Shire with the official launch taking place yesterday evening at Frankie’s Café in Warragul.

The program was initially developed after recognition of the great economic value of keeping local start-up talent in the region and the need to better support them.

The vision of the bespoke program is to build a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports local employment and attracts investment and jobs.

Support services offered to local entrepreneurs and start-ups by the program include:

Monthly events: Monthly themed training sessions tackling common start-up challenges, and monthly informal networking events to help connect with other like-minded local people. Masterclass: Panel style discussions to focus on common small business and start-up needs, such as finance, legal and marketing. Humble Hustle: Structured networking events designed to encourage collaboration between existing members and welcome new members to the start-up community. Annual Innovation Summit: A showcase event that brings together a number of initiatives designed to energise the start-up community and showcase the excellent work they do. Tailored Business Development Programs: Including a mentor support program to guide eligible start-ups along their journey and a start-up bootcamp for eligible start-ups with intensive mentoring and advice.

The program is open to anyone in the Casey/Cardinia/Baw Baw region who has an innovative business idea and the drive to make it work. Participants under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult/parent.

For more information or register interest, visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/InnovationCrowd

This initiative is being provided in partnership with the City of Casey Council, Cardinia Shire Council and Baw Baw Shire Council with support from LaunchVic and Federation University Australia.

Quotes attributable to Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Mikaela Power

“Following the success of the program in neighbouring Casey and Cardinia regions, we’re excited to see the program expand into Baw Baw. Through this program, we can continue to support the creation of jobs and growth in our region and provide a like-minded community for the amazing innovative businesses in our own backyard.”

“Providing programs and support to our current and future business is a real priority for Baw Baw Shire Council. We know it’s a great place to live, it’s also a great place to start your business and grow it.”

Quotes attributable to City of Casey Mayor Cr Amanda Stapledon

“We are so pleased to build upon our existing Casey Cardinia relationship to now include Baw Baw Shire in our continuous pursuit for innovation in our region. The program will unlock so many opportunities for local start-ups to collaborate, network and grow.”

“We recognise the growing entrepreneurial community we have here in the South East region, and we’re committed to providing local resources to help foster and grow this community, rather than our budding entrepreneurs having to travel to the inner city to seek support.”

Quotes attributable to Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Graeme Moore

“Our region prides itself on being forward-thinking and innovative. Through this initiative, we aim to foster new businesses in the area, without them having to leave and go elsewhere for support. Let’s keep these new businesses here - working, being employed – and we will be there, right behind them with the support they need to grow and thrive.”