Spark Festival 2023 | Aug 16-30

What is Spark Festival?

Spark is a Not For Profit, grassroots festival whose mission is to drive prosperity for all Australians via the growth of thriving new economy businesses. Our community is large and strong: startups, investors, SMEs, big corporates and innovators at every stage are all invited. Whether you are getting started or going global, you'll find your spark at Spark.

Spark Festival is the place to get inspired, make connections with impact, and learn the tools and techniques of the new economy.

A celebration of entrepreneurship everywhere, Spark Festival brings together all walks of the startup world who share a common goal: to imagine and bring to life exciting, valuable, and successful ventures.

 

Our Values

The principles that guide all our activities and shape our community.

Innovation

We do things better and solve problems in new ways. We only make new mistakes. Business as usual is not an option because we are agents of change.

Empathy

Understanding and appreciating others is the bedrock of inclusion and diversity, making us all stronger.

Generosity

We foster a culture of abundance and #GiveFirst with our knowledge and networks.

Sustainability

We are the custodians of this beautiful planet: the wellbeing and prosperity of future Australians is in the hands of those who are alive today. 

The people of Spark

Participation in the annual program is by EOI, with people and organisations from across the country invited and encouraged to contribute. Keeping it all together is Program Director, Maxine Sherrin.

As a not for profit, Spark Festival is guided and supported by its board.

Festival Director

Maxine Sherrin

Maxine Sherrin

Festival Director,

Spark Festival

Spark Festival Board

Alex Scandurra

Alex Scandurra

Founder, serial entrepreneur, angel investor, advisor and mentor

Maria MacNamara

Maria MacNamara

Director of Government Relations and Innovation Strategy,

Kyndryl

Eitan Bienstock

Eitan Bienstock

Founder, Advisor, Managing Partner, NED

Anne-Marie Elias

Anne-Marie Elias

Believes the world can be a better place, starting with Australia

Kristy Dixon

Kristy Dixon

Partner,

Marque Lawyers

Murray Hurps

Murray Hurps

Director of Entrepreneurship,

University of Technology Sydney