Innovation

RDA Illawarra will continue to foster a regional environment that is innovative and works towards putting the region at the forefront of industry development. We recognise that innovation can take many forms; from creating new technology and new products, to developing original approaches to opening up new markets. In the Illawarra region, the University of Wollongong is the source of a great number of innovative ideas and technologies. However, in order to generate economic activity, innovation must occur in the marketplace. For this reason, innovation that occurs within local businesses is of enormous value.

The delivery of regional innovation strategy will be the primary responsibility of the Enterprise Connect Innovative Regions Centre, which is co-located with RDA Illawarra. RDA Illawarra will work with this agency and wherever possible, assist in fostering innovative practices in local business. RDA Illawarra’s focus on innovation through the Innovative Regions Centre is:

• Assisting in building business capabilities and entrepreneurial capacity;
• Regional business collaboration; and
• Assisting the flow of innovative information.

Our Board Member, Chris Quigley, will be Chairing the Sub-Committee on Innovation.  Current projects that fall within this priority include:

• Minerals Technology Industry Development;
• Illawarra Business-Research Exchange; and
• Innovation 'Sounding Board' and Blog.