The Polaris Centre
LGA Presentation2 October 2014
Salisbury’s Economy
Strategic Context
Innovation Industry Development
Investment Intelligence
Connecting entrepreneurs and
innovators with world class technology,
research networks and local expertise
Growing local businesses,
strengthening priority industry
sectors and supporting emerging industries
Attracting new business investment,
supporting reinvestment by local firms and promoting investment in human
capital and knowledge creation
Digital training, smart cities, technology
transfer, future trends and opportunities
A PROSPEROUS, JOB CREATING ECONOMY
Integration Benefits
Services• Entrepreneurship
– Business Fundamentals– New Entrepreneurs
Program
• Business Growth– Mentoring & Coaching– Digital Enterprise– Business Advice– Manufacturing Liaison– Location support
Services• Innovation & Research
– University to business linkages
– Northern Business Research Partnerships
– New horizons seminars
• Networking– Major events– Business Women’s
Network– Northern Adelaide
Business Breakfasts
Customer Feedback
Funding Model
• Financial input from a range of partners
• Key issues:– Operational funding– Short term funding to
address long term issues– Compliance costs– Service continuity
Ten Key Learnings1. Regional approach brings scale2. Staff need a unique mindset and attitude3. Someone bears the risk4. It’s all about partnerships, but be flexible – the agenda of
others can change frequently5. Don’t lose sight of your strategy - it’s a long game, not a
short one6. Position for independence but integrate back into Council 7. The role of Elected Members as champions8. Separate branding is a benefit…and can be a curse9. No business should fail through lack of information10. Celebrate the wins