Empowering Innovation and Community Collaboration @ Pitch2Grow Moree ‘24

Moree

15 May

Pitch2Grow Moree 2024 brought together a lively mix of entrepreneurs, judges, guests, and locals at the Social Co House on 10 May. With 70 attendees, the atmosphere buzzed with energy and promise as seven innovative pitches aimed to carve a niche in various sectors.

Among the ventures were:

Kerrie Saunders' Born Bread Buttered, which proposed producing flour from native grains, tapping into sustainable agricultural practices.
Amber Boyle introduced Creme Studio, offering medical-grade skin and cosmetic treatments. Nathan Davis showcased NJ-NEER Concrete Casting, presenting a revolutionary coloured concrete product for architectural design.
Michael Phipps pitched NDISmate, a web app designed to streamline tasks for NDIS providers.
Kerrianne Ryan captivated the audience with Gallop and Grow, an equine-assisted learning program for children with disabilities or anxiety.
Tyler Macey outlined Social Co House Stage 2, envisioning creative spaces with podcast rooms, 3D printers, and photography studios.
Julia Minors and Jacson Warner presented Jule Jarner, aiming to provide creative spaces and events to enrich Moree’s cultural landscape.

The judging panel, including Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse, Tocal ag teacher and farmer Geoff Dunlop, Manager TAFE Services NSW Jodi Ritchie, and Holly Bartram, founder of Connect with Country App, faced the tough task of evaluating these innovative proposals.

The audience, representing Moree's stakeholders, including local government, business chambers, educational institutions, and community members, engaged in lively discussions, networking over lunch catered by Cafe Gali, and shared ideas for new ventures.

UNE SRI Regional Connector Sheree Cayirylys and Director Dr. Lou Conway ensured the event was informative, entertaining, and inclusive. The climax was the announcement of the winners: Kerrianne Ryan won the $1,000 People's Choice Award and the $2,000 Overall Pitch2Grow Judges Award for Gallop and Grow.

Pitch2Grow Moree 2024 highlighted the resilience, creativity, and collaborative spirit of the Moree community. As these entrepreneurs continue their journey to transform ideas into reality, they carry the support and enthusiasm of a community committed to growth and innovation.

This event was funded by the NSW Government under the Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund. Photos by David Waugh of Verso Design.