The Australian cleantech sector is worth about $26 billion and employs over 45,000 people Australia-wide but it’s also a sector in which investment has so far lagged behind the rest of the world. With this in mind the Australian Clean Technologies Competition was launched last year as a way to provide another opportunity for Australian cleantech companies to develop their businesses.
The 2012 competition will be launched this month and will promote a uniquely Australian take on building the future of this high-tech, high-skill sector. Ideas can be for technologies, services and policies that address pollution, waste treatment and energy storage, new ways of looking at energy efficiency, building materials, transportations systems, public utilities and much more. Last year’s winner was SMAC Technologies, a company producing patented energy efficient air conditioning which reduces energy consumption between 30% and 85%.
The competition doesn’t just mean recognition and promotion for entrants. Up to 30 of the best companies will qualify for an intensive mentoring package that will see them receive the best advice to give their businesses the greatest chance to move towards success. This Cleantech Business Accelerator Program will be tailored to suit the diversity of needs reflected in growing businesses – be it access to venture capitalists, patent support, legal advice, research support or corporate assurance.
Up to six companies will then be selected as Finalists and will receive additional advice and introductions. The Australian Winner will be announced at an Investment Showcase and Gala Dinner in October. The Winner will be funded to represent Australia at the international GlobalCleantech Open Competition in the US in November 2012. All of the Finalists will be invited to join the Australian delegation attending this event.
To hear more about some of last year’s success stories and why this year the competition is bigger and better, an information sessions will be run in Sydney on the 23 May, 3:45pm-6pm – Following on from the Eco Innovation Forum
For more information on how to enter visit the website: http://cleantechopen.com.au/index.html
