Recognising the need to futureproof Sydney’s economy, in 2019 the City of Sydney partnered with Haymarket HQ. The innovation hub provides office space and online support for international startups and entrepreneurs.
The City of Sydney-Haymarket HQ partnership launched Sydney Landing Pad, introducing startups to doing business in Sydney and acting as a gateway into Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
Since the program’s inception, 10 startups valued at $500m have entered the local market and flourished, while creating local jobs and strengthening the economy.
The startups cover agritech, edutech, blockchain, artificial intelligence, smart mobility, the internet of things and fashion.
Haymarket HQ’s Duco van Breemen said employment in Sydney has increased since the Chinatown-based hub’s launch.
“As a result of the Sydney Landing Pad and various other initiatives, we’ve seen tremendous revenue, funding and job growth in the past 2 years,” he said.
“Education platform HolonIQ was founded in 2018 and has grown from 2 founders to a team of over 20, located in Sydney and around the world.”
This year, 17 international businesses, from wildfire detection drones to smart bike helmets, will take part in online workshops and mentoring programs to promote diversity and employment.
Each startup or entrepreneur partners virtually with a local mentor to share their expertise, insights and experience.
Intello Labs, which registered for the 2020 program, uses artificial intelligence to reduce fruit and vegetable waste by standardising quality assessments.
The agritech startup’s head of Asia Pacific, Tanmay Bhargava, said the Sydney Landing Pad was a unique opportunity to enter the Australian market.
“We’re at an inflection point in terms of our overseas expansion and are aggressively looking for access into our most important markets,” Tanmay said.
“We hope to have a better grip on our Aussie market strategy.”
We know this is tough time for local businesses. The City of Sydney supports those affected through a series of Covid-19 relief grants and other measures.
Published 6 April 2020, updated 29 February 2024
