Twenty three fledgling businesses were invited to each make four minute presentations, and then participate in panel discussions with seasoned industry players and investors. Another 20-odd companies demonstrated their developments in breakout sessions.

Rachel Slattery, director of Slattery IT which organised the event, said she was hopeful this would be the first in an annual series of events showcasing local development. Sponsored by the NSW Government, Slattery said 140 start up organisations had applied to participate in the event, with 23 eventually selected.

Modelled in part on other events which allow entrepreneurs limited time to pitch their wares, Slattery said she did not want to event to involve investors “grilling” companies, but had instead taken “The Masterchef approach so that they get constructive feedback.”

In line with that Tech23 will not have a ‘winner’ as such, although a series of prizes including cash and in-kind support have been donated by established companies, and will be awarded to the presentations judged to have greatest promise. An announcement as to which organisations secured the prizes is expected next week.

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