The Future is Local
Do you have an innovative idea that could shape Wyndham’s future?
Are you (or someone you know) constantly dreaming up smart solutions to real-world challenges?
Be part of Wyndham’s Pitch Competition powered by Press Play Ventures and help create meaningful, long-term change in the way we live, work and connect.
2026 Theme: The Future is Local
We’re calling for big ideas with local impact. Your innovation should respond to one of Wyndham’s priorities, challenges, or opportunities — all with the goal of strengthening our community’s future resilience, sustainability, and vibrancy.
If you or your business is ready to make a difference and you’ve been waiting for the right platform — this is your moment.
Entries open: 8am, 2 March 2026
Entries close: 5pm, 30 March 2026
👉 Register for the Online Info Session on Thursday 12 March 2026, 5 pm
Why Participate?
Visibility
Showcase your idea or business to a community passionate about innovation, growth, and local impact. Whether you’re ready to expand or just getting started, this platform positions you to be seen.
Impact
Be a catalyst for positive change by contributing solutions that strengthen Wyndham’s long-term future — socially, environmentally, and economically.
Networking
Connect with like-minded innovators, mentors, potential collaborators, investors, community leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs.
What’s on Offer?
- Press Play Ventures expertise at your services via this Sprint Program
- Kick off Networking Event
- 3 x 2h Business Masterclasses
- Networking & Open Pitch Night
- 1:1 Mentor Sessions for finalists
- Winners Prize Pool - $10,000
- Winner: $5,000
- Runner Up: $3,000
- Peer Choice Award: $2,000
- Winners support by SPARK Business & Innovation Hub
Access to SPARK In-Residence Memberships valued at $6,300 across:
- Winner: 12 months
- Runner Up: 6 months
- Peer Choice Award: 3 months
This program is designed to propel your idea or business to the next stage!
Program Dates & Times
1. Kick-off networking event – Spark Business & Innovation Hub
Tuesday 7 April 2026 – 11am – 12:30pm
Get to meet the Press Play team and other participants.
2. 2h Masterclass Series powered by Press Play Ventures
In person - Tuesday 7 April 2026 – 9am–11am
Online - Tuesday 14 April 2026 – 9am–11am
Online - Tuesday 21 April 2026 – 9am–11am
This practical masterclass series supports startups and businesses to strengthen their foundations and make clearer decisions about where to focus next.
Facilitated by Press Play Ventures, the sessions combine structured guidance with real-world experience from working alongside thousands of founders. Participants will work through three core areas of business building:
- Understanding your customer and defining a customer strategy
- Refining your value proposition and business model
- Communicating and pitching your business with clarity
Whether you are shaping a new idea or evolving an existing business, these workshops provide space to step back, test your thinking and leave with practical actions you can apply immediately.
3. Networking & Open Pitch Night
Thursday 24 April 2026 – 5pm–7pm
SPARK Business & Innovation Hub
600 Sneydes Road, Werribee 3030
An open pitch event where participants can practise their pitch in a supportive, collaborative environment. No judges — just constructive conversation, shared insights, and peer feedback.
4. 1:1 Finalist Online Mentor Session
60min 1:1 mentoring for up to 5 finalists between 28 April – 7 May 2026
Finalists receive tailored guidance and mentorship from industry experts to refine their pitch ahead of the Grand Finale.
5. Pitch Grand Finale at WYNnovation Business Expo
Thursday 7 May 2026 - 3pm – 5pm
Werribee Racing Club
Five finalists will pitch live to mentors, industry representatives, sponsors, councillors, community leaders, and local students.
Our Sponsors
Major Sponsor — Victoria University
Through innovative vocational and higher education, underpinned by ethically aligned industry partnerships, Victoria University (VU) is addressing critical skills needs and shaping the workforce.
“We understand that our students all have unique skills, strengths and insights that can be harnessed into bold thinking for local solutions. This is why Victoria University is a proud major sponsor of WYNnovation Business Expo, celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity by bringing local businesses, business leaders, and innovators together to think big, learn, expand their networks and help shape Wyndham’s future.”
Premier Sponsors
Wyndham City Council gratefully acknowledges the support of our Premier Sponsors:
- STACK Infrastructure
- Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Their ongoing support helps strengthen Wyndham’s innovation ecosystem and empowers local entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.