Applications are now open for the 2024 Uptown Accelerator program, and hospitality venues and business associations are among those invited to take part.
The Uptown Accelerator is designed to support local business communities to achieve collaborative success for the benefit of their district’s future, and the 2024 program is open to businesses from 43 LGAs, including Central Coast, Wollongong, Newcastle and surrounds.
The program, which encourages place-based collaboration and innovation, will support district teams with vital skills such as pitching, grant writing, branding and attracting partners. Those who complete the program will have the opportunity to pitch their vision to potential partners and collaborators later in the year.
Michael Rodrigues, 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, said: “The Uptown Accelerator provides district teams with the essential skills they need to achieve success as a collective, to build momentum and to reach a wider audience.
“We’ve seen so many exciting teams come through the program, from Koreatown in Eastwood to the iconic Rainbow Precinct in Sydney, and we look forward to supporting even more district teams this year.”
The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner is encouraging arts and cultural institutions, entertainment and hospitality venues and business associations to submit applications to the program, which is a key element of the 24-Hour Economy Strategy.
Jess Jenkins, Precinct Coordinator for High Street Day + Night in Penrith, shared her experience of the program.
“The Accelerator program enabled us to really crystallise our vision for how we are going to move forward into the future and improve our district for the better.
“It was a great way to engage and coordinate with businesses in our community and beyond – and I’d encourage other businesses to join forces and take part in the Accelerator. Why not be a part of changing your district for the better?,” she said.
Applications for the Uptown Accelerator are now open until 3pm on Wednesday 22 May 2024. To find out more, visit nsw.gov.au/uptown-accelerator.