Led by Curtin University, the intensive week-long Curtin Ignition program supports entrepreneurs and innovators in preparing their business ideas for market.
Local entrepreneur Anita Richards has been awarded a scholarship for her development of a modular off-grid renewable energy concept designed to provide reliable and adaptable energy for remote and mobile environments.
Her concept aims to address the challenges faced by people and organisations operating beyond established infrastructure, where energy solutions can be costly, inflexible or dependent on fossil fuels.
The entirely off-grid renewable energy concept has potential applications across remote industries, emergency services, regional communities, mobile operators and travelers.
Anita first began exploring the concept in 2016 and has since undertaken business planning, market research and customer discussions while continuing to build her experience across business operations, logistics, compliance, safety, sales and marketing.
Through the Program, Anita plans to validate market demand, identify the most suitable minimum viable product and explore manufacturing pathways, with the aim of progressing towards prototype development and commercialisation.
Mark Dixon has also been awarded a City scholarship for his development of Engage & Braggers, an interactive platform designed to help sporting venues, entertainment venues and live events create more engaging and family-friendly experiences.
The platform aims to transform passive venue experiences by combining gamification, QR technology, live challenges, educational activities, rewards and fan engagement tools to encourage participation, exploration and social interaction.
The concept has potential applications across sporting venues, racecourses, golf clubs, tourism destinations, entertainment venues and family events.
Mark is currently in the early stages of commercialisation, with market validation and prototype testing underway. He has developed early platform concepts and interactive prototypes and is engaging with venues, sporting organisations, marketers and technology professionals to further test the idea.
Through Curtin Ignition, Mark aims to refine the business model, build industry connections and progress pilot programs and commercial partnerships across the sport, tourism, hospitality and live events sectors.
The City of Wanneroo has supported local entrepreneurs through the Curtin Ignition Program for more than a decade, helping innovative local ideas access the skills, expertise and connections needed to progress towards market.
The 2026 Curtin Ignition Program runs from 15 to 21 August 2026.
For more information on future opportunities, including business support programs and scholarships offered by the City of Wanneroo, sign up to the Business Wanneroo e-newsletter.
