Canberra Innovation Network


The CBR Innovation Network is an initiative of the government of the Australian Capital Territory, that was founded in 2014, and established to accelerate innovation and diversify the economy in the ACT region. The CBR Innovation Network is based on the collaboration of its six Foundation Members: the Australian National University, CSIRO, , , the University of Canberra, and the University of New South Wales. One of the CBR Innovation Network's primary programs has been the creation of an innovation district in Canberra, which features a business incubator, a start-up accelerator program and a co-working space.

History

A need for targeted economic development in Canberra was identified by the ACT in 2014.Canberra Innovation Network#cite note-CE-2| Canberra Innovation Network was subsequently established in November 2014, with the goal of accelerating innovation and diversifying the ACT region's economy.Canberra Innovation Network#cite note-Whitley-1|

Programs

Canberra Innovation Network supports a range of programs within the ACT, including:
- Coworking, a co-working space for entrepreneurs and startups.
- GRIFFIN Accelerator, a 3-month intensive mentoring and investment program for startups.Canberra Innovation Network#cite note-7| Six teams were accepted into the Griffin Accelerator's 2016 program; each team traded a 10% equity stake for funding amounting to $25,000 AUD.Canberra Innovation Network#cite note-StartupSmart-6|
- KILN Incubator, a training and mentorship program for startupsCanberra Innovation Network#cite note-8|
- Innovation Connect Grant, a grant that supports early innovative, entrepreneurial ideasCanberra Innovation Network#cite note-9|