Startup festival wins state backing

The state has committed $500,000 to boost the West Tech Fest as the government outlined a new innovation strategy to the gathering of startup entrepreneurs.

WA Innovation and ICT Minister Stephen Dawson announced the new strategy at the opening of the 2022 conference at the Westin Hotel, offering a vision for the state to become a global hub of invention.

The five-point strategy focuses on research and inventiveness; product and technology development, translation and testing; offering a home to globally-focused organisations that can scale and create jobs; ensure the state becomes an adopter of new technologies and tech transfer; aim for innovation that is inclusive and purposeful as well as rewarded and respected.

Mr Dawson's 10-year vision recognised the sector's importance in building a resilient and diversified state economy.

"The new WA Innovation Strategy provides a roadmap for establishing the State as an international leading technology hub and innovation capital,” Mr Dawson said.

"The strategy supports a range of activities and will build collaboration to elevate WA's innovation sector onto the global radar and propel our local ecosystem into a new phase of growth.

"Innovation is key to diversifying our economy, and the McGowan Government is committed to making sure startups and entrepreneurs continue to have access to the opportunities they need to stay and expand their businesses here.”

Now in its 11th year, West Tech Fest has become a major event for the WA startup and technology community.

The West Tech Fest funding, over two years, is through the New Industries Fund.

"West Tech Fest is an invaluable opportunity for our startup and technology community to showcase their capabilities, attract investment and attract international interest," Mr Dawson said.