The new era of innovation: The perfect storm for Australia’s startup engine

It’s the best time ever to build a startup in Australia. Every ecosystem goes through cycles, and Australia is entering a new phase shaped by new capital models, ambitious founders pushing global boundaries and a talent base that is evolving just as quickly as the technology itself.

In this opening address, Leigh Jasper offers an insider’s view on how the Australian innovation landscape is shifting, what is driving momentum and where the next wave of growth will emerge.

Drawing on his roles across LaunchVic, Glitch Capital, SecondQuarter Ventures and decades of scaling companies born in Melbourne, Leigh will explore the trends reshaping our state: the rise of founder-friendly capital, major shifts in early-stage funding, how talent is adapting to AI and global competition, and the sectors where Victoria is positioned to lead.

Leigh will also speak to the collective strength of the ecosystem, highlighting how community-led support, partnerships and cross-sector collaboration can accelerate growth even in unpredictable market conditions.

Growth Summit attendees will walk away with a clear, practical understanding of the opportunities ahead, the realities founders must prepare for and how to build resilient, ambitious and talent-led companies in a changing economy.