tech
What's Happening Right Now in the Local Tech and Startup Scene
Founders on the Sunshine Coast close deals and line up events through the second week of July.
How we reported this
Three Sunshine Coast startups secured seed funding this week, with announcements landing on July 10 that total $4.8 million across firms focused on coastal logistics software and remote health tools.
The timing lines up with national venture activity that picked up after mid-year reviews, giving local founders access to follow-on capital before the August reporting cycle begins. Investors have cited steady demand for tools that handle seasonal tourism spikes and aging-in-place services in regional areas.
One deal went to a team based in the Maroochydore business district along Aerodrome Road, while another round closed for a group operating out of the Sippy Downs Innovation Precinct. The Coast Tech Alliance hosted the term-sheet signings at its weekly office hours on First Avenue.
Events and programs drawing crowds
The Sunshine Coast Startup Accelerator opened applications on July 8 for its next cohort, with sessions set to run at the Event Centre on Ocean Street starting August 4. Last year's program graduated 22 companies that reported average revenue growth of 38 percent within six months of completion.
Organisers booked the Noosa Heads Surf Club venue on Hastings Street for a July 17 pitch night limited to 180 attendees at $35 per ticket. A separate meetup at the Caloundra Library on Bulcock Street will cover export compliance for hardware startups on July 14.
Next steps for founders
Teams planning to apply to the accelerator should submit decks by July 25 through the alliance portal. Local banks along the Sunshine Coast Highway are offering 90-day bridge loans at 6.9 percent for accepted applicants waiting on final term sheets.