The inaugural Tech Verge Summit, hosted by Greater Whitsunday Innovation at the Pavilion 500 in the Mackay Showgrounds. This event brought together over 90 attendees from diverse industries to explore practical, real-world applications of technology for regional businesses. With a strong focus on digital tools, automation and artificial intelligence, the summit empowered small and medium enterprises to embrace innovation and future-proof their operations. The program featured more than a dozen speakers and panellists, including app founders, AI leaders and marketing experts, alongside an exclusive AI breakout workshop delivered by CoPilot HQ. A hands-on Tech Showcase highlighted tools already in use by regional businesses. The event welcomed participation from two Indigenous-led businesses and a full student table from St Patrick’s College, with strong representation of women-led businesses and organisations. Industry reach spanned health, mining tech, education, marketing, agriculture, fitness, mental health and manufacturing.
The Local Buying Foundation’s support for the summit reflects its broader commitment to building stronger and more resilient local business communities. Since its inception in Queensland in 2012, the Foundation has approved nearly $9m in funding for close to 200 projects. Its investment in Tech Verge 2025 aligns with its mission to back initiatives that foster innovation, economic development and inclusive participation across regional Australia.
The summit was hosted by Greater Whitsunday Innovation, formerly known as Split Spaces. Founded in 2016 in Mackay, this not-for-profit co-working and innovation hub has grown from a small office into a thriving community of entrepreneurs, startups and creatives. It offers co-working spaces, meeting rooms, workshops and specialised facilities such as 3D printers and a recording studio. Over the years, the organisation has played a pivotal role in supporting business growth and collaboration across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, and continues to lead the charge in regional innovation.
Early feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, and planning is already underway for Tech Verge 2026, with continued engagement through LinkedIn, newsletters and upcoming Greater Whitsunday Innovation programs. The summit’s inclusive approach which features youth, Indigenous businesses and women-led enterprises ensures that the benefits of innovation are shared across the community.