Perth is a hive of innovation activity this week with more than 400 members of the State’s start-up and tech community coming together for West Tech Fest 2021.
From December 6 to 10, a wide range of events are being held across Perth, Fremantle and Rottnest Island as part of the festival featuring chief executive officers, founders, tech leaders and early stage investors.
Innovation and ICT Minister Don Punch officially opened the West Tech Fest 2021 conference earlier today, announcing the McGowan Government’s commitment to the festival will expand in 2022 with an investment of $500,000 to support the inclusion of a public Innovation Showcase that will promote the State’s home-grown, world-class innovation talent.
Now in its tenth year, West Tech Fest has built a strong global network and profile, and enabled many successful investment outcomes.
The festival is hosted by Curtin University and supported by a wide range of partners from across universities, government and industry.
The State Government is a gold partner for West Tech Fest 2021 and has contributed $20,000 through its $16.7 million New Industries Fund to fund the flagship event.
Established in 2017, the New Industries Fund enables initiatives like West Tech Fest, which support and accelerate Western Australia’s innovative start-ups, emerging businesses and small to medium enterprises, to diversify local and regional economies and create jobs.
For more information about West Tech Fest 2021 visit https://www.westtechfest.com.au
As stated by Innovation and ICT Minister Don Punch:
“The McGowan Government is a proud supporter of West Tech Fest, which provides our local start-up and tech community with the opportunity to grow and showcase their capabilities, attract investment and reach new global markets.
“During the week-long festival, WA’s start-ups and emerging businesses will have numerous opportunities to engage with investors from home and abroad, including the United States and Asia.
“Innovation is key to diversifying our economy and creating local jobs. We are committed to making sure local entrepreneurs have access to the support they need to stay and expand in Western Australia.
“Looking to the future, the State Government will also partner with the festival on the inclusion of a public Innovation Showcase to increase awareness of the world-class innovation talent who call Western Australia home.”
