_SOUTHSTART secures AUD $2 million for three more years of growth
Australia's festival destination for innovation, _SOUTHSTART, has received a renewed funding commitment from the South Australian Government, securing its annual festival for the years 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Three-year partnership
The multi-year funding, totalling AUD $2 million, has been confirmed to support the delivery of _SOUTHSTART events through to 2028. The festival, which is approaching its tenth year under current management, is recognised as a significant gathering point for Australia's innovation community.
Originating as a home-grown startup conference, _SOUTHSTART has grown in scale and reputation since 2018. Organisers note that the event has become well regarded among startups and investors, with a record that includes notable alumni such as Netflix Co-Founder Marc Randolph, Techstars Founder Brad Feld, and the founders of Australian unicorn companies Canva, Culture Amp, and Safety Culture.
According to festival organisers, _SOUTHSTART functions as both a networking space and a forum for critical discussion within the startup sector. The event attracts local and national attendees, providing a platform for sharing knowledge and exploring investment opportunities.
"This moment is a signal of belief," said Danielle Seymour, Co-Director at _SOUTHSTART. "In the importance of innovation, and the power of bringing people together to wrestle with the challenges of our time, and build the solutions that will help us overcome them."
Craig Swann, also Co-Director at _SOUTHSTART, commented on the impact of the renewed partnership, stating, "The renewed partnership will fuel continued evolution, helping to attract world-class thinkers, deepen local industry engagement, and amplify our position as a global hub for innovation and future-focused leadership. Our next chapter will also see us cater to the growing maturity and evolving needs of the startup community that has supported the event over the years."
Government support
The South Australian Government has positioned the funding as support for the state's ambition to strengthen its innovation sector. The investment is expected to assist not only local entrepreneurs but also foster national and international connections through the festival's activities.
The Hon. Dr Susan Close MP, Deputy Premier and Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, stated, "_SOUTHSTART has proven its value as a catalyst for innovation, investment, new connections and business growth, helping put South Australia's burgeoning startup sector and emerging industries on the map. Through this AUD $2 million investment, the South Australian Government is backing the next stage of _SOUTHSTART's growth, creating more opportunities for local entrepreneurs, showcasing the depth of opportunities for investors, attracting new partnerships and strengthening South Australia's innovation economy."
Upcoming events
Under the terms of the renewed partnership, the next edition of _SOUTHSTART is scheduled to take place from 17 to 19 March 2026 in South Australia. Details regarding the programme, speakers and ticketing are expected to be released in October 2025. The festival will continue with its established format, offering immersive experiences across Adelaide and regional locations, incorporating dialogue, networking, and knowledge sharing for participants from a range of sectors.
Festival organisers report that _SOUTHSTART's growth over recent years has reflected increasing participation from founders, investors, technologists and other stakeholders in the innovation sector. The event is described as being characterised by its open environment, with its stated aim of providing context as well as content for those looking to connect and collaborate.
The AUD $2 million in funding is intended to allow the event to scale up its operations and expand opportunities for the startup and investor community in South Australia and across Australia.
