CBRIN, the Canberra Innovation Network, and Canberra Airport today announced a new partnership to support innovation and entrepreneurship in the Canberra region. As of 1 April 2023, Canberra Airport become a Gold Partner of CBRIN, providing financial support and in-kind resources to help grow the innovation ecosystem of the Canberra region.

CBRIN is a non-profit organization founded by national and regional higher education and research institutions with support from the ACT Government and a group of corporate partners. CBRIN supports the growth and development of innovative businesses and startups in the Canberra region by connecting and providing a range of programs that include mentoring, networking, skills development, access to coworking, incubation, acceleration, collaborations, research linkages and funding.

Canberra Airport is a major regional transport gateway and a significant contributor to the economic and social development of the Canberra region. They provide air travel services to millions of passengers each year and own a variety of other business ventures, including commercial and retail property development and management and land development, with a strong focus on sustainability and community initiatives.

Under the partnership, Canberra Airport will provide annual financial contributions and in-kind resources to support CBRIN’s programs and initiatives, while also offering access to its facilities and expertise to local entrepreneurs and innovators. The partnership will also create new networking and promotional opportunities for local startups, entrepreneurs, innovators, and innovative businesses, helping to attract more investment and talent to the region and accelerating growth of regional businesses.

“Hala Batainah, Chair of CBRIN, stated “We are thrilled to have Canberra Airport join us as a Gold Corporate Partner. Their experience and resources represent a great asset to our community and further our goal to establish Canberra as a leader in innovation.”

“Canberra Airport is committed to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the Canberra region,” said Stephen Byron, CEO of Canberra Airport. “We see this partnership as an opportunity to give back to the community and help grow the regional economy through the development of new businesses and technologies.”

“Partnering with the Canberra Airport really extends the Canberra innovation ecosystem,” said Petr Adamek, CEO of CBRIN. “Canberra Airport joins other Canberra Innovation Network Gold Partners, including Optus, PwC Australia and King&Wood Mallesons in providing us with key complementary resources and opportunities for the region’s ambitious innovators and entrepreneurs.”