Australian Catholic University (ACU) has officially joined the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) as an Education Partner, strengthening links between higher education, research, and Canberra’s fast-growing innovation community.
CBRIN is a not-for profit set up by four foundation members, the Australian National University, University of Canberra, UNSW Canberra and the Canberra Institute of Technology in collaboration with the ACT Government and private sector partners to connect, promote and grow the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the ACT.
ACU becomes the second Education Partner of the Network, joining the Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE). Both are located in Canberra’s education precinct in Watson and now connect into the city’s wider innovation ecosystem through CBRIN.
“This partnership means more pathways in Canberra for students and researchers to collaborate with entrepreneurs and the broader innovation community on solutions to some of the wicked problems we face.” said Petr Adamek, CEO of CBRIN.
Associate Professor Darius von Güttner, Dean of ACU’s Canberra Campus, said: “Our focus on dignity of the human person and community, combined with national research expertise, brings a new important dimension to Canberra’s innovation ecosystem.”
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA welcomes the partnership: “The Australian Catholic University is a valued part of Canberra’s university sector, and it’s fantastic to see them join the Canberra Innovation Network as an education partner. Strengthening our knowledge-intensive sectors is a key priority, and there are strong synergies between research, business innovation, and industry that help drive future growth.”
The partnership will open opportunities for students to engage with Canberra’s startup community through internships, workshops, and entrepreneurial training. ACU researchers will gain support to translate their work into real-world impact, with access to investors, industry collaborators, and funding through CBRIN. Startups and entrepreneurs will benefit from ACU’s expertise in health, education, and social services, as well as connect with a pipeline of emerging talent.
The addition of ACU as an Education Partner comes as CBRIN is gaining international recognition, recently named Runner Up in the Global Triple E Awards 2025 for Innovation Ecosystem of the Year. Australia performed strongly at this year’s awards, reflecting the depth of entrepreneurial talent and collaborative culture across the nation. For Canberra, it reflects the city’s growing reputation as a globally connected hub for entrepreneurship, research, and innovation, and highlights the impact of partnerships between universities, government, and industry in shaping solutions with international relevance.
