We live in an information rich world, with a barrage of communications bombarding our in-trays and screens daily.
But how much of that information is locally focused and relevant to your business?
If you’ve got questions about where the local economy is headed and where your future business opportunities might be, the Hunter Research Foundation (HRF) can provide some answers.
This month we will release new, locally-focussed data on the regional economy, environment and energy usage, and the Hunter’s innovation space, at our Hunter Economic Breakfast and on our website.
As the Hunter economy transitions away from mining as the main economic driver and towards a services-based economy, where are the opportunities for growth?
What industries are benefiting from the exchange rate and low interest rates, and how quickly are Hunter businesses adjusting to change?
We look at these and other questions in our latest Hunter Economic Indicators.
We’re also exploring the energy resources sector, which has been identified by Regional Development Australia’s Smart Specialisation initiative as one of seven competitive advantages of the Hunter that offer potential for future growth and development. The Hunter already generates more than 60 per cent of NSW’ electricity supply and the sector employs around 2,200 local people. We’ve researched local consumer attitudes to the environment and energy usage and invited experts from CSIRO and the University of Newcastle to speak at our March breakfast next week on trends and future opportunities in this important industry.
Paul Graham is Chief Economist of CSIRO’s Energy Flagship and advises CSIRO on the global and national economic context relevant to the energy sector. He developed the landmark Future Grid Forum in 2013, which involved leading generators, networks, retailers, regulators, NGOs and key federal and state government departments exploring potential scenarios for Australia’s energy future.
Gary Ellem, Future Industries Program Manager for the University of Newcastle’s Tom Farrell Institute is a sustainability futurist working mainly in the areas of transport, energy and regional innovation. He recently co-founded his own business, Social Business Pty Ltd, offering digital products, training and advice to help businesses drive employee engagement, open new markets, develop and de-risk new products, and meet regulatory compliance.
HRF will also release the results of a study, conducted in collaboration with Hunter Founders’ Forum, into the Hunter’s business innovation space. In an economy where innovation and entrepreneurship are critical to Australia’s (and the region’s) progress, find out what’s missing for our region’s start-ups and creative thinkers.
