From Collaboration to Capital: How Cohort Innovation Space Empowers SME’s to Grow

5 minute read

Highlights:

• Discover how Cohort Innovation Space transforms startups and SMEs into global success stories.
• Find out about the unique community that’s catalysing growth, connection and impact.
• Learn about InvestFest, a premier event connecting founders directly with investors.

Cohort Innovation Space (Cohort) is more than just a place to set up your laptop; it’s a dynamic ecosystem designed to foster growth for startups, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and innovators on the Gold Coast. With flexibility to tailor to different needs, Cohort provides an environment where innovation thrives. From hot desks to private offices and specialised R&D laboratories, there’s a spot for every entrepreneur looking to make a mark. This month, we spoke with Georgia Wyllie, Cohort’s Program Coordinator, and Cassandra Birbas, Community Manager to find out more about the unique success factors, and the upcoming event, InvestFest.

Cohort Innovation Space – More Than a Workspace
Cohort is an environment for innovators. The state-of-the-art facilities are designed to inspire connection, creativity and productivity.

“It’s an inviting space that brings people together – with a huge outdoor area, to gatherings around the social spaces including the kitchen and coffee machine, people are always talking with each other, connecting and helping each other out,” said Georgia.

That vibrant community is something that sets Cohort apart – the members and staff, along with mentors, alumni, health professionals, technology professionals, researchers and more. There are ample opportunities for networking and collaboration through regular events, workshops and informal meetups. This community-centric approach helps foster connections that can lead to partnerships, collaborations, advice and referrals, along with lifelong professional relationships.

Alongside its collaborative environment, Cohort offers extensive support year-round. From the signature LuminaX HealthTech Accelerator Program to a range of initiatives for startups and SME’s, as well as a packed schedule of workshops and events, it’s a vibrant community that stays active throughout the year.

Cohort has recently introduced new wellness focussed events, including yoga and meditation classes. “It’s great for business owners to be able to take a short break to look after their wellness and return refreshed. It’s also an attractive employee benefit for growing their businesses,” said Cassandra.

InvestFest Unveiled—Connecting Startup Founders with the Capital They Need
Coming up in the Cohort events calendar is InvestFest, a premier event designed to create a bridge between entrepreneurs seeking funding and investors looking for the next big idea. With a dream line up of 25 top investors (including investors from Airtree, 77 Partners, Sprint Ventures, QIC, Antler to name-drop just a few) it’s clear why the event’s applications filled rapidly.

Attendees have been matched for one-on-one VC meetings, followed by an investment keynote and panel session. “I’m excited for the whole event, particularly the panel session. We’re lifting the lid on the Australian VC market and asking the questions that founders can’t ask themselves,” said Georgia.

“The whole event is designed to make connections and ease the ‘cold call’ vibe of reaching out to investors – having a warm introduction and making it fun and inviting.” With networking drinks to finish the event, that’s sure to be the case.

InvestFest is more than just the event though – it’s an exclusive opportunity to begin ongoing meaningful connections and the relationships that can propel startups forward.

The Cohort Difference – Cultivating Success in its Health-Focused Ecosystem
Cohort is located right in the middle of Lumina, within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP). This health and innovation focused precinct benefits from close proximity to research institutions, hospitals, and specialised talent, providing unparalleled access to resources, interdisciplinary partnerships and collaboration opportunities.

“We’ve been able to help connect people, drawing on the big number of mentors and industry connections that have been built over time – including with advanced R&D teams in universities, specialists in the Gold Coast Hospital and advanced technology or business services. And most of them are within a 10-minute walk from Cohort,” said Georgia.

Nurturing Life-long Connections – Cohort’s Community Fuels Ongoing Success
While events like InvestFest may be a catalyst for growth, it’s also clear to see the strength of the community’s impact on Cohort members over the years. After Cohort’s first five years at Lumina, it’s clearly built strong foundations that are propelling startups and businesses to grow and scale. The ecosystem of internal and external networks, new founders and experienced business owners, is continually reinforced with returning alumni and mentors – while attracting more and more new visitors.

“The members come here to get help to build their business – from programs and mentors, connection with industry experts and more. They may leave once they’ve outgrown us, but our alumni always come back. They pop in and say hello or send us a message to let us know what’s next for them. It brings us so much joy to see their journey,” said Cassandra.

Join the Movement—Elevate Your Business at Cohort Innovation Space
Cohort Innovation Space invites startups and SMEs looking to elevate their businesses to become part of this thriving community. With a variety of flexible spaces and a wealth of resources, Cohort provides the ideal environment for companies aiming to grow and succeed.

Not needing space right now? There’s a huge range of programs, workshops and events through the year, to connect into this thriving community.

Contact Cohort Innovation Space today and become part of a community dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth.