Launching Now: CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Contest
The CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Challenge is now open for expressions of interest, inviting Victorian startups to develop technology-driven solutions that can revolutionise tourism, hospitality, and events experiences in the region. Organised by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR) in Victoria, this six-week bootcamp offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs to learn from industry experts and test their ideas.
The challenge aims to transform Victoria's tourism by focusing on digital and data-led innovation, immersive experience design, cross-sector partnerships, sustainable and inclusive tourism, and improved infrastructure and connectivity.
- Digital and Data-Led Innovation: By leveraging digital platforms and data analytics, startups can create personalised, seamless visitor journeys that adapt to individual preferences and highlight unique regional attractions. This can improve visitor satisfaction, extend stays, and increase spending in regional areas.
- Immersive Experience Design: The use of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and interactive technologies can enrich onsite experiences, such as heritage tours, local food and beverage offerings, and cultural events. Such immersive experiences help regional destinations differentiate themselves and attract diverse visitor segments.
- Cross-Sector Partnerships and Collaboration: Promoting partnerships between government, startups, community groups, and industry players fosters innovation ecosystems in regions and builds sustainable tourism infrastructures.
- Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism: Integrating technology that supports environmental sustainability and social inclusion ensures tourism in regional Victoria respects local ecosystems and cultural sensitivities, enhancing the destination's long-term viability and community acceptance.
- Improved Infrastructure and Connectivity: Investments in digital connectivity (such as regional broadband and smart infrastructure) and improved transportation hubs enhance access and convenience for visitors, directly boosting regional tourism potentials.
Participants will receive $12,500 equity-free funding during the bootcamp. At the end of the programme, two teams will secure an additional $25,000 funding to bring their prototype to life. More information about the challenge, including a case study of a previous participant, Acumind AI, can be found on the provided link. The deadline for expressions of interest is August 21, 2025, at 1pm.
In addition to the challenge, other technology solutions are emerging to support Victoria's tourism sector. For instance, HAL Systems is a climate control tool for commercial spaces that considers indoor temperature, solar radiation, and energy efficiency. EnAccess Maps is a platform to help people using mobility aids find accessibility information on the places they're planning to visit.
Notably, AFL great Justin Koschitzke and AI expert Leneila Lynne are on a mission to protect the health and wellbeing of Australia's farming communities. HAL Systems, which recently raised $850,000 in seed funding, is one of the initiatives aiming to make a positive impact in this area.
The CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Challenge presents an exciting opportunity for Victorian startups to contribute to the transformation of the tourism, hospitality, and events sectors in the region, while also delivering ongoing value to local communities. Sabrina is associated with EnAccess Maps, a testament to the potential impact these initiatives can have. So, if you have a technology solution that could transform the way people experience travel in Victoria, consider applying for the CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Challenge today.
- Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and test their technology-driven solutions in the six-week CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Challenge, which aims to revolutionize tourism, hospitality, and events experiences in Victoria.
- The challenge offers $12,500 equity-free funding during the bootcamp, with two winning teams receiving an additional $25,000 funding to bring their prototypes to life.
- The goal of this challenge, organized by DJSIR, is to focus on digital and data-led innovation, immersive experience design, cross-sector partnerships, sustainable and inclusive tourism, and improved infrastructure and connectivity in regional Victoria.
- Other emerging technology solutions, like HAL Systems and EnAccess Maps, are also supporting Victoria's tourism sector, ensuring it caters to diverse visitor segments and meets accessibility needs.
- By applying for the CivVic Labs Experience Victoria Challenge, startups can contribute to the transformation of tourism, hospitality, and events sectors while delivering ongoing value to local communities.
