Sowing the seeds: creating a regional innovation ecosystem in Goondiwindi

Sowing the seeds: creating a regional innovation ecosystem in Goondiwindi

Goondiwindi Regional Council’s Economic Development Vision:
‘The Goondiwindi region aims to be Australia’s centre of agricultural excellence, a premier visitor destination, and a region celebrated for its prosperous rural lifestyle.’

History: A community consultation identified an opportunity to establish a Centre for Agricultural Excellence to capitalise on the innovation generated in the region and the rapid advances in technology that is changing the face of agricultural production systems.

Project Vision: The Centre for Agricultural Excellence concept will see the creation of an ecosystem that will support local producers in developing a solution to their everyday farming issues using local businesses, funded by local investors and employing and educating locals, as well as attracting investment and additional personnel to the region.

The Centre will be community led to resolve local issues and to serve local interests and industries. The facility is expected to be financially self-sustainable within a reasonable period. The Centre will act as an incubator for local businesses offering opportunities for collaboration, mentoring, investment, education and technical support.

Expected outcomes: Identify the demand, potential users and other broader regional risks and opportunities. Identify practical governance, operational, investment and infrastructure models to ensure success. The Centre must be a local entity, which is viable, sustainable and successful in providing solutions to agricultural challenges as identified by local farmers.

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