AEDA Strategic Partnerships Program Spotlight: MTPConnect
MTPConnect is putting Adelaide’s medical technology, biotechnology, digital health and pharmaceutical sectors on the world stage, cementing the city as a global hub for medical innovation and economic growth.
The organisation, an Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) Strategic Partner, provides a central platform for industry and researchers to collaborate with international industry, government and educational institutions.
AEDA awarded MTPConnect $460,000 for three years as part of its Strategic Partnerships Program, designed to accelerate economic growth and activity across the city and promote Adelaide as a Life Sciences destination for investment and talent attraction.
Australia’s life sciences innovation accelerator supports start‑ups and small‑to‑medium enterprises (SME’s) bringing medical innovations to market by connecting South Australian companies with global industries.
MTPConnect has driven innovative, city‑shaping collaboration through its Adelaide MTP 3‑Year Gateway Program, supporting job creation and innovation and business activity across Adelaide. It has also played an important role in raising the profile of the sector on the international stage.
Globally, MTPConnect supported the attendance of 40 South Australians from 20 organisations at the 2025 BIO International Conference, the world's largest and most comprehensive biotechnology event, held in Boston, USA.
At the conference, South Australian delegates showcased their research and ideas to investors, stakeholders and professional networks. A key outcome of the trip was securing a $1.8 million deal for a Contract Research Organisation at an MTPConnect sponsored event, generating $5 million in new business.
Closer to home, a local advisory group-comprising representatives from industry, clinical trials, universities and investors - was established in 2025 to support the program’s aims, providing key insights and guidance to raise awareness and promote the sector.
MTPConnect also hosted the Antimicrobial Resistance Workshop, attracting 81 international delegates, and featuring national and international speakers. The event highlighted local research, industry and facilities at SAHMRI, in the heart of Adelaide’s BioMed City.
Other achievements included hosting delegates from China to attend a conference and engage with local stakeholders at Adelaide BioMed City.
In 2026, MTPConnect will expand its outreach even further, with a robust calendar of events and opportunities ready to launch in the coming months.
These initiatives include an Investor Education Series designed to strengthen investment into the life sciences sector, additional outbound delegations to international conferences and events, and the establishment of a flagship event designed to attract international talent, investors and businesses to Adelaide. Since establishing the program, MTPConnect has expanded its mapping of local investors, secured commitment from four local investors to drive participation, and developed resources combining investor education, company pitching and networking.