Ideas worth innovating for Central Queensland
Big thinkers and shed tinkerers can test and grow their sustainable strategies at a new event to boost Central Queensland’s innovative economy.
CQUniversity Gladstone is hosting the Ideas to Impact – Networking Event on Thursday 3 September from 4.30pm-6pm.
Innovation, industry, and start-up experts will come together to share insights, foster connections, and support aspiring entrepreneurs at this free public event.
It’s part of the three-year Gladstone Regional Enablers Program, delivered by CQUniversity and funded by the Queensland Government.
Register now to attend the Ideas to Impact Networking Event.
Expert advice
The event will feature representatives from AusIndustry, the Australian Government agency that connects small and medium businesses with government support, alongside innovation and industry leaders from CQUniversity and James Cook University.
Speakers include AusIndustry Central Queensland Regional Manager Jennifer McGuire and JCU Innovation and Industry Lead Dr Samantha Horeseman.
Gladstone Regional Enablers Program lead, Associate Professor Linda Pfeiffer said the event is helping strengthen the region's innovation ecosystem and problem-solving capacity to support a sustainable future.
“It’s exciting to offer this free and targeted opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem-solvers to gain practical skills, receive expert guidance, and build valuable professional networks,” she said.
The Ideas to Impact Networking Session is the Gladstone Regional Enablers Program's final event for 2026 and follows the three-day Impact10x Simulator.
Delivered by James Cook University and Mindesigns across 1-3 September, the free Impact10x Simulator helps aspiring entrepreneurs and scale-ready start-ups develop business ideas, refine business models, and strengthen investor-ready pitches. Participants can take part individually or in teams.
Applications for the Impact10x Simulator Gladstone event are now open via the Impact10x website.
Future in focus
Participants will also gain a future-focused perspective, with Trinity College students showcasing sustainable energy projects developed through a series of Regional Enablers Program events.
Three student teams will pitch their ideas alongside entrepreneurs and innovators at the Ideas to Impact Networking and Pitch Event.
CQUniversity Master of Teaching alumnus Maddie Panther will also share her insights, as Head of Programs for BOP Industries, a national initiative working with schools to inspire the next generation of young innovators.
The young educator’s career has exploded beyond the classroom, connecting thousands of students with opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration
