Adelaide's Blooming Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Helping Innovators and Businesses Thrive

The entrepreneurial ecosystem in Adelaide is on the rise. According to Startup Genome's 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, Adelaide startups have increased in value by 19% since 2023, reaching $1.9 billion.

With multiple international ventures now calling the city home, Adelaide is fast becoming a compelling and competitive location for both startups and scaleups. Its innovative spirit, coupled with opportunity, is helping businesses to thrive locally and enter global markets. 

Adelaide's innovation districts on North Terrace, Adelaide BioMed City and Lot Fourteen are key drivers in accelerating new ideas and fostering a highly skilled workforce. These districts support the growth of various sectors such as health, defence, space, high-tech and creative industries. 

"What I think Adelaide has done very well is to build that close proximity. It's those incidental building networks [and] building friendships... that is of value" says Dr. Anne Collins, CEO of Sementis — a biotechnology startup based in Adelaide's BioMed City precinct. 

Nick Boniciolli, CEO and Co-Founder of Optible AI highlights the availability of grants available in Adelaide gives businesses a head start. "It's always the first customer that is the hardest to get. [The State Government's program] gave us a huge amount of credibility to be able to get other government and large enterprise [customers]."

See what else Dr. Anne Collins and Nick Bonciolli have to share about the city's appeal for startups below.

Through the Strategic Partners Program, AEDA supports startups, scale-ups and business growth within the City of Adelaide. Meet the recipients of the current program here.

If you would like to access free and confidential services to grow your business or find a space within the city, connect with our Business and Investment Team.