Unis partner to ignite innovation

THE region’s manufacturing sector is set to be boosted by a new tertiary partnership.

Federation University and Deakin University have signed a ManuFutures Ignite program agreement with an aim to drive industry innovation, and assist product-based start-ups to realise ideas and solutions with a focus on sustainability.

As part of the initiative, 12 weeks’ worth of classroom workshops will be run at FedUni’s SMB campus to support those concepts.

“This partnership between Deakin University and Federation University Australia will help drive innovation for manufacturing businesses within the Ballarat region,” said FedUni vice-chancellor and president Professor Duncan Bentley.

“We are looking forward to welcoming local students, entrepreneurs and start-up businesses to our SMB Campus in the heart of Ballarat and helping them convert their inventive ideas into commercial reality, while helping to nurture the spirit of innovation within our business community.”

Deakin University acting deputy vice-chancellor research and innovation Professor Matthew Clarke said the ManuFutures Ignite program aligns with an impact theme of the uni.

“It speaks to advancing society, culture and the economy by building the business capabilities necessary for a strong, sustainable, diverse and resilient economy,” he said.

“With great success in the Geelong region, we saw an opportunity to increase the program’s impact across Victoria, with Federation University as a critical partner in delivering the program to Ballarat and its regions.”

Those who take part in the program are expected to leave with more developed ideas, a business strategy, and skills to both attract investment and get products ready for the market.