Bathurst’s first start up incubator, Upstairs, will receive a cash injection of $284,513 to continue fostering new businesses in the Central West region.
Entrepreneurs in new and emerging industries in regional NSW will be given a boost to grow revenue, raise funds and create regional jobs, thanks to the NSW Government’s Accelerating Regional Innov
ation Fund.
Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said Upstairs Regional Incubator Bathurst will engage and inspire entrepreneurs and small business operators in the Central West to drive innovation in key and emerging industries.
“We know regional NSW is home to many great inventors, entrepreneurs and future industry leaders, and it’s a place where you can turn a dream into reality, chart a new course in business and make a difference in the community,” Mr Toole said.
“This new fund will help businesses access the right expertise to improve their capability and competitiveness, drive economic growth and will equip regional entrepreneurs with the skills they need to lead change.
Upstairs Chair Patrick O’Connor said Upstairs was thrilled to be successful in receiving this funding from the NSW Government.
“This will allow more start-ups and investors to access the programs and support they need to succeed and create jobs in the region,” Mr O’Connor said.
“Since inception in 2018, Upstairs has grown in leaps and bounds delivering some of the regions most successful businesses.”
One such successful business is Constructive Energy, who specialise in assisting regional industry, business and local government in optimising the value of renewable energy.
Ashley Bland, Managing Director of Constructive Energy said Upstairs was the perfect launchpad for his business.
“It was really important in the start-up phase to have somewhere like Upstairs to go to access simple things like reliable internet, printing and a desk but also to experience the benefits of a workplace without the politics and have mentors to bounce ideas off,” Mr Bland said.
“Starting with a local client base, Constructive Energy now has a nation-wide footprint, and we are looking international for our next clients.”
Start-ups from Upstairs have gone on to have immense impact in their industries of choice including
- Defence
- Aboriginal Employment
- Mental Health
- Consent Training
- Digital marketing
The Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund will support programs that provide new knowledge, skills, training, networking, investment opportunities and other activities that will help the newest businesses in regional NSW to prosper.”
The NSW Government’s $3 million Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund supports accelerator and incubator programs that boost regional entrepreneurs and start-ups in emerging sectors and future industries outlined in the 20-year Economic Vision for Regional NSW.
For further information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/ARIF