Innovative local businesses visited by Minister

The Coffs Harbour Innovation Centre received a visit from the NSW Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello recently.

Coffs Harbour Technology Park Board Chair Warren Grimshaw and Innovation Centre Coordinator Julianne McKeon were delighted to show the Minister around the Centre.

“It was great to have the opportunity to showcase everything that the Innovation Centre has to offer,” Ms McKeon said.

“The Minister seemed impressed by the fact that the Innovation Centre provides more than just office space and facilities to businesses who work from there, but also opportunities for business mentoring, networking and collaboration with the Southern Cross University and North Coast TAFE.”

The Minister met with the various businesses that have offices at the Centre along with Member for Coffs Harbour Andrew Fraser.

“The Minister was interested to hear about both the opportunities and challenges of running a business, particularly a technology based business from Coffs Harbour,” Ms McKeon said.

One of the Innovation Centre tenants Julie Aldridge of Avide E-learning was able to explain to the Minister the positive benefits fast broadband has had on her businesses.

“Julie was also able to thank the Minister for the changes in the past 12 months where State Government tendering processes were opened to smaller companies such as theirs. This enabled them to bid for a worthwhile State Government contract,” Ms McKeon said.

During his visit the Minister was also made aware of the 6 Degrees Co-Working Space as well as the Digital Innovation Challenge sponsored by Telstra and a number of local businesses including the Coffs Harbour Technology Park.

To find out more information about the Coffs Harbour Innovation Centre, contact the Coordinator on coordinator@coffsinnovation.com.au or visit their website at www.coffstechpark.com.au.