MACKHACK to assist innovators and start-ups

The MACKHACK program, which is fully funded by the Queensland Government and METS Ignited, with support from Mackay Regional Council, will help local start-ups or scale-ups who have an innovative, cost-saving or production efficient idea that could be introduced to the mining sector.

The program will provide a structured approach to pitch development and direct access to industry mentors, the program also presents an opportunity for local innovators to tackle some of the big challenges facing local miners today, with the potential to develop new commercial opportunities.

“Australian METS companies have great entrepreneurial spirit and we want them to reach their full potential. We want the world to know the Bowen Basin is one of Australia’s key regions for leading METS innovation,’’ said acting CEO of METS Ignited, Ian Dover.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local innovators to get the assistance and mentoring they need to take their ideas to the next level and help us solve some of the challenges miners are facing today,” he said.

The MACKHACK Accelerator program will be delivered June 7 to 9 by Split Spaces, a coworking and innovation hub located at the city campus of CQ University in Mackay, with a collection of mining and METS industry mentors and expert facilitators.

Incoming Split Spaces community manager, Deb Allan said it was a unique opportunity to learn how to turn ideas into reality, prototypes into production and connect with some of the big players in our region with the possibility to get your innovative solutions to trial.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council was proud to support this program which embraced innovation.

“The METS sector is a huge contributor to our region’s economy and innovation will drive its continued growth and success,’’ Cr Williamson said.

“Our region has a reputation for producing forward-thinking innovators, so it will be fantastic to see some of the results from this accelerator program,’’ he said.

Representatives from local mining and major METS companies will be involved in the program, providing mentorship to participants and judging the final pitches at the showcase event on Sunday evening.  The innovation showcase is open to the public, providing an opportunity to witness the outstanding quality of innovation and capability from our region.   Winners will take home a share of the $5000 prize pool.

To be eligible, applicants should:

• live and work in the Mackay/Bowen Basin Region
• be available to participate in the entire program over the weekend
• have a passion for innovative thinking and problem solving and provide an innovative cost-saving or production-efficient service or product, at any stage of development, that has potential applications in the mining sector.

Registrations are open and close Wednesday, June 5.