GET READY!
The Hunter Innovation Festival is back in 2025 and bolder than ever!
In its 23rd year, the festival gets you ready to dive into a world of possibilities as we explore the future of our region and beyond.
From cutting-edge technology to groundbreaking ideas, this year's festival is your chance to connect with the brightest minds, be inspired by world-class speakers, and discover how we can shape a brighter tomorrow, together.
25 SEPTEMBER 2025
Dream it
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Build It
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Grow it
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Dream it 〰️ Build It 〰️ Grow it 〰️
Meet Our Keynote Speakers for 2025
Meet A FEW OF Our PANELISTS for 2025
+60 Speakers at the festival in 2025
Sessions that build our future
Dive deep into a curated program of compelling keynotes, interactive workshops, and panel discussions with the Hunter's brightest minds. Each session is designed to deliver actionable insights, spark new connections, and equip you with the tools to be a part of the change. Explore the schedule and choose the sessions that will ignite your own innovation.
Get Involved
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Get Involved 〰️
Startup Alley: Discover Tomorrow's Innovations Today.
Pew! Pew! Pew! Fast Ideas. Big Impact
Festival After Dark: Network, Celebrate and Connect.
Igniting Regional Prosperity
Hunter Innovation Festival Roadshow
Join the Hunter Innovation Festival Regional Roadshow, a six-week journey leading up to the main event! This isn't just about spreading the word; it's our commitment to deepening connections and fostering real change across every LGA in the Hunter. We're bringing together the right people to tackle local challenges and unlock new economic opportunities. Be part of the conversation, influence shared initiatives, and help shape our region's future.
Get Your Festival Pass
Get Your Festival Pass
CHOOSE YOUR PASS
Don't Be Left Out.
Every year, there is one event that brings the entire Hunter innovation ecosystem together. On Thursday, 25 September, that event is the Hunter Innovation Festival. This is your single best opportunity to connect with the leaders, founders, and investors who are building the future of our region. But spots are limited, and with tickets selling faster than ever, the chance to be in the room is disappearing daily. Don't be the one hearing about it afterwards—secure your place today and ensure you're part of the conversation.
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$229
The complete festival experience from morning to night.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote speakers and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall to meet exhibitors.
☕ All-day catering, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
lanyard and official festival program.
🤝 Premium networking opportunities with industry leaders.
🌙 PLUS: Your all-inclusive ticket to the 'Festival After Dark' networking party.
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$199
Your ticket to a full day of inspiration and connection.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote speakers and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall.
☕ Catering provided, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
lanyard and official festival program.
🤝 Networking opportunities with hundreds of professionals.
⭐ Eligible to purchase a 'Festival After Dark' Add-On ticket.
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$49
Connect with the future of innovation at an accessible price.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall.
☕ Catering provided, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
🤝 The perfect opportunity to connect with potential employers and mentors.
⭐ Eligible to purchase a 'Festival After Dark' Add-On ticket.
(Note: A valid undergraduate or TAFE student ID must be presented upon entry).
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Available only to festival pass holders. Don't let the conversation end!
$49
🥂 Entry to our exclusive networking party at the George Darby Hotel (5 PM - 8 PM).
🍢 A selection of delicious canapés served throughout the evening.
💬 A relaxed setting to connect with speakers, delegates, and VIPs.
🤝 The ideal opportunity for high-value networking after the main event.
(This ticket can only be purchased in conjunction with a Delegate or Student Pass).
Igniting Innovation Together
We extend our deepest gratitude to our invaluable festival sponsors, whose generous support fuels the engine of innovation and makes this extraordinary community event possible.
Principal Partner
Principal Partner
Founding Partner
Gold Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Sponsor the Hunter Innovation Festival.
Partner with the Hunter's most exciting celebration of innovation, science, and creativity and connect your brand with a forward-thinking, engaged, and influential audience.
To receive our official Sponsorship Prospectus and discuss how we can tailor a partnership to meet your objectives, please get in touch today.
Festival News
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Festival News 〰️
Welcome to a different kind of FESTIVAL
WE BELIEVE in the power of together
A power rooted in three simple actions: Connect. Learn. Share.
WE DECLARE this a SAFE SPACE
A judgment-free zone where kindness is our language and you are free to be your most authentic self. All are welcome.
WE ARE an escape from the market
There are no price tags here. No pitches. This is a NO-SALES gathering. We trade in ideas, smiles, and skills—not commerce.
WE CHAMPION a culture of GIVING
We ask, “What can I offer?” before “What can I get?” Generosity is our currency.
WE ARE ALL ARCHITECTS of a STRONGER COMMUNITY
We build bridges, not walls. We forge bonds of friendship and support that ripple outwards.
WE STAND for lifting others
We are committed to making this experience accessible and to actively SUPPORTING our UNDER-SERVED neighbours.
This is our promise to each other.
Now, let’s make some joy!
Location
The Hunter Innovation Festival 2025 will be held at the iconic Newcastle City Hall, a stunning heritage building located in the heart of the city.
Getting Here
Newcastle City Hall is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. The Newcastle train station is also a short walk away. Discover all your travel options here. Innovation is for everyone, that’s why this venue has detailed accessibility options her to make you feel welcome.
Accommodation
A range of accommodation options offering a discount to Hunter Innovation Festival delegates are available in close proximity to Newcastle City Hall, from hotels to serviced apartments.
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Five-Star Hotel in Newcastle CBD | Crystalbrook Kingsley
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HIF
4. Choose your rate from the 24th
to 29th of September 2025.
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Quest Newcastle
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HUNTERIF25
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Quest Newcastle West
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HUNTERIF25
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