BUSINESSES and organisations throughout the Northern Inland are invited to nominate themselves for the sixth annual Regional Development Australia Northern Inland (RDANI) Innovation Awards, which recognise and promote those who innovate to achieve success.
“We want to hear from businesses and organisations that are doing something unique, thinking outside the square and finding new ways to expand markets, increase business or improve service delivery,” RDANI executive officer Nathan Axelsson said.
“Innovation is one of the key differentiators of a progressive economy. There are 55 Regional Development Australia areas and according to the recent Regional Australia Institute Competitiveness Index, Northern Inland NSW was ranked the 13th most innovative region in the country.
“It’s important that we recognise those businesses in our region that are doing something different, giving themselves and our region a competitive edge. This can set an example and inspire others. Past winners, like EdAlive Software, Photo Create, SustainAg, Boss Engineering and Trethewey Industries have shown what it takes to look beyond their traditional markets,” Mr Axelsson said.
The Northern Inland Innovation Award categories are: Agriculture/Horticulture and Associated Services; Tourism/Leisure and Services; Professional and Retail services; Manufacturing and Engineering; and Research and Education.
The awards committee will select finalists for each category, who will receive two tickets to the gala awards night to be held in Tamworth on 8 November. The Innovation of the Year Award will be presented to the leading innovator across all categories.
According to AusIndustry regional manager Tim Cotter, the Northern Inland Innovation Awards are a fantastic opportunity for regional firms to get due recognition for innovative business practices they have implemented over the past 12 months. “AusIndustry has been a sponsor since day one. In my experience, category winners and the ultimate Innovation of the Year winner really have been proud of the achievement. It’s generally been something out of the box, something in the business that has led to some improvement, opened up new opportunities, increased sustainability, find a particular niche or find new customers.”
The recognition provides a pat on the back and exposure that can help a business or innovation step up to another level. People often run out of steam before commercialisation or results from innovation are achieved and encouragement can be so important,” Mr Cotter said.
It is free to enter the Innovation Awards. Information on the awards and the online entry form can be found at www.niia.com.au. Entries close on Friday 27 September. YouTube clips about past winners can also be viewed on the site.
For details call 0427 008 572 or go to the awards website: www.niia.com.au
