City of Moreton Bay is in the running for two accolades at the 2026 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence.
Council has been named as finalist for the Economic Development Marketing Promotion category for its The Ultimate HQ program.
And in Economic Development Excellence – Cities and Larger Regions category for Business Boost: Innovating Business Support for a Stronger Moreton Bay Economy initiative.
The Ultimate HQ (pictured above) challenged traditional investment attraction turning tenancy opportunities at the University of the Sunshine Coast into a $1 million international competition.
It attracted global attention, applications from high-growth businesses and new investment opportunities for City of Moreton Bay.
The prize included five years rent-free at UniSC, funding towards fit-out, access to research and talent at UniSC and support from competition partners including UniSC, BDO, Constant Contact, K&L Gates, Telstra, and Westpac.
Business Boost reimagined business support by providing businesses with practical tools, expert advice and tailored assistance to grow, adapt and succeed in a changing economy.
It delivered seven programs including Master your food business, Beyond the Farm Gate, Eco-Certification and Accreditation Support, UniSC Tax Clinic, Tech Essentials, SMART Foundations and Shopfront Renewal.
The National Economic Development Awards for Excellence are Australia’s peak national awards program for economic development. Economic Development Australia says they attracted a record entry.
“This recognition is a significant achievement that reflects the collective efforts of Council in supporting small business and strengthening City of Moreton Bay’s position as one of Australia’s leading growth economies,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.
“I am proud of our reputation for having one of the most innovative and effective Economic Development teams in local government.
“Our economy is growing in scale and complexity and investing in its growth through innovative programs, like those nominated, will pay dividends for our future through more, higher-value jobs for residents and generations to come.”
Winners will be announced at the National Economic Development Awards for Excellence gala dinner on October 14.
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