Media Release
Some of the nation’s smartest minds in business growth and innovation have committed to support businesses within North-East Victoria to become stronger and more resilient to change.
Startup Shakeup (the region’s support network for people wanting to start a new venture, refresh the way they do business or introduce innovation into their organisation) has incorporated as a Not-For-Profit and its newly appointed board brings an exciting mix of state, national and global business expertise.
The board includes locals as well as professionals from outside the region in fields as diverse as biotechnology, venture capital, marketing and entrepreneurship. It will continue the former steering committee’s focus on agile and sustainable economic growth in North-East Victoria, as well as aiming to accelerating business growth, resiliency, digitization, and innovation.
Chairing the board will be local Murrundindi Shire resident Martina Rienzner, an experienced director, chair and advisor with an entrepreneurial background.
“Startup Shakeup has always had a spirit of connecting and listening to the business community and the board is totally committed to continuing that,” Ms Rienzner said.
“The groundwork has been done by the people and organisations that have set this model up. That, together with the calibre of the new board, means there is a really good opportunity for growth,” she added.
Joining Ms Rienzner on the board is venture builder and management consultant Trey Zagante, former Ernst & Young tax partner Graham Frank, biotechnology commercialisation expert Dr Emma Ball, brand and marketing executive Andrew Vittadello and former Startup Shakeup steering committee members Guy Wilkinson, Catherine Macmillan and Ilena Young.
Former steering committee chair Ilena Young described the incorporation and new board as a “remarkable regional asset”.
“Businesses have been through so many shocks over the last 18 months. We want as many businesses as possible to grow, develop greater skill sets and build their resilience because our regional communities are based around businesses. The stronger those businesses are the stronger our communities are,” Ms Young said.
For interviews about the new Startup Shakeup board contact:
Jessica Bolch, Startup Shakeup Comms & Program Facilitator
0467 999 901 | jessica@startupshakeup.co