HOW TO LEVERAGE INNOVATION IN UNEXPECTED LOCATIONS
The Northern Territory is becoming an object lesson in intelligent investment attraction, leveraging geographical location, and local advantages. When combined with careful selection skills, things start tracking. By Harley Paroulakis
I n the last 6 years, the Northern Territory has quietly developed the foundations of a vi- brant innovation ecosystem. A highlights reel might include some of the following high points; • Companies like SPEE3D creating new inno- vations in 3D metal printing and advanced manufacturing; • Up-and-coming start-ups such as Corro- sion Instruments and Universal Site Man- agement developing unique technologies to support the Mining, Equipment, Tech- nology and Services sector; and • Innovations in the Information Communi- cation Technology (ICT) sector with com- panies such as Hold Access developing a digital wallet that empowers First Nations people to hold diverse identification with access to full capabilities in their control. Recently, the Territory is looking to become Australia’s first manufacturer and exporter of the iconic Albatross G-111T, an amphibious air- craft which can take off and touch down from
land, snow, ice, and water. Amphibian Aero- space Industries (AAI) is relocating its refur- bished aircraft and establishing a new facility and office at Darwin International Airport. AAI first caught the eye of the Darwin Innovation Hub when it took out first prize at their annual Croc Pitch event in 2021. AAI is a great exam- “The fundamental key to realising these commercial opportunities lies in applying relevant technology to our North’s rich industrial sectors.” ple of how early-stage technology investment in an aviation manufacturing company can not only provide a technology proof of concept but also unlock a pathway towards later-stage cap- ital investment, modern manufacturing, skilled jobs, and industry growth.
INNOVATIA
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INNOVATIA
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