One Out-of-the-Box: Groundswell 2019
- Written by
- Dee Ellwood
If learning how to power an island, rubbing shoulders with Google experts, checking in on the latest e-bike technology and marvelling at the CBD laneway art installations, were just a few of the innovative creations and technologies that got you moving and shaking at Tauranga’s Groundswell festival last year – then brace yourself for 2019, says Lindsay Faris, organiser of the inaugural event.
“This year there truly will be something for everyone. Some events we’re taking bigger, like Little Innovators, and other things will be totally fresh,” she says. “Think a Tertiary aged event – Circuit Breakers Innovation Kete – focussed on personal discovery and development using innovation tools; an innovation focussed Maori Business event; a Sports Innovation Summit; and a dinner party extravaganza in partnership with Melbourne’s Well Sensered Food.”
Why such a diverse line-up? Because this year’s Groundswell theme is centred on ‘why’ we innovate.
“We don’t just innovate for fun, or because it might be trendy, we innovate to solve real problems – to stay afloat, do things faster, better, stronger, to push the boundaries of what we never thought possible, to solve big intransigent problems that demand collaboration and innovation,” enthuses Lindsay. “Every event and speaker will touch on this – and I’m excited to see what comes up!”
And if you’re a local business or start-up planning on a full day of discovery – why not begin at breakfast, suggests Lindsay.
“We’re launching the Out of the Box Breakfast – an event like never before. We’ve got local, national and international speakers, fab food, coffee carts – the whole nine yards – set to go,” she explains. “It’s aimed at SME businesses, start-ups, local government leaders and business alike, who want to come and hear the war stories of innovation in the trenches – how it can be done by everyone!”
And as the changing pace of Tauranga ensues – there’s no better time to take stock of what’s happening in and around our place.
“We’re proving ourselves to be a city that isn’t prepared to sit back and watch the world pass us by. We’re embracing change and fostering an innovative mindset throughout our business and community networks,” says Lindsay. “Groundswell isn’t just about revealing new technologies, it’s about unbottling the thought and motives that go into creation – and sharing that journey.” language. Take it home, create deliberate acts to speak it.”
Two weeks of fresh ideas and international speakers: This year’s Groundswell Festival will be held from 26 August to 9 September 2019. Go to www.groundswellfestival.nz for more information.