Minister Brumby, Ivan Kaye and Entrepeneurs Showcasing their Technologies at an ADI/BSI Investor Forum

The climate for startup technology businesses over the financial year has improved markedly over the past 3 years.

Venture Capital Funds do not focus on seed stage, but there are substantial dollars available for Management Buy Outs. We have noted a marked interest in High Net Worth Individuals in this space, as interest rates are low, property market seems to have stabilised, and equities are currently at an all time high. This bodes well for our market over the next few years.

The ICT market is also strengthening, with a shortage of supply of good Technologists. Salaries for ICT professionals have also increased markedly.

There is currently an IPO frenzy in Australia, which means that Incubators have the opportunity to exit companies in their portfolios through listing them.

In the United States early stage funding is returning as a hot sector. The free trade agreement, and the positive way in which USA companies view Australia, bodes well for our Incubatees. They have a window of opportunity in getting their technologies marketed and promoted in the USA Market.

The China Market is also on the boil, and Australia seems to be well positioned to take advantage of their growth. The USA could also view Australia as a safe place to Launch their Companies into China. The next few years should be focussed on developing strong relationships with USA Venture Capital Firms and Influencers in the China Markets.

We are in a period of growth for the ICT Industry and investors, and are delighted with the continuing support that has been given with the various Federal Government Programmes in our effort to assist early stage technology companies. These Programmes include the ICTIP Programme, COMET, R&D Commercial Ready, R& D Tax Concessions and Rebates and Austrades EMDG Programme.