Join a whole new experience at Wyndham City’s WYNnovation Business Expo 2026 – a big day out dedicated to working on your business, not just in it. This year, we celebrate a powerful truth: The Future is Local
Whether you’re scaling up, starting out, or ready to explore new opportunities for your business, this is your moment to step up, think big, and act locally.
All ticket holders attending the event will automatically be entered into an exciting lucky draw, featuring prizes worth a total of $5,000!
If you're unable to attend in person, you can still tune in live on 88.9 WYN FM
Free and premium tickets available. Registration required.
Event Program features
All day Free Expo: 50+ local suppliers
Discover the best of Wyndham’s business community all in one place. Connect with over 50 local suppliers showcasing a diverse range of products and services - from professional expertise to creative industries - all right at your doorstep. (Full exhibitor list coming soon – exhibitor application now closed)
While you explore, enjoy a range of interactive and free experiences throughout the day:
- Freshen up with a free haircut from the Victoria University (VU) Mobile Barber
- Step inside a real ambulance and practice CPR with VU students
- Get expert guidance and free business advice from Business Victoria, Small Business Bus
- Meet and connect with the Victorian Small Business Commission, Wyndham City Council teams and industry
Whether you're looking to grow your network, gain insights, or simply explore what’s local, there’s something here for everyone.
Premium Keynotes and experiences
Unlock powerful insights from industry leaders, innovators and storytellers in this exclusive premium program:
Adam Jacobs, Co-founder of The Iconic & Hatch presenting “Lessons from the The Iconic”
Dr Michelle Dickinson, Global Technology & Innovation Leader presenting “Curiosity as a catalyst for Innovation"
MC Osher Günsberg’s exclusive presentation: 10 Ways to Say It Better
The Premium Ticket gives you access to everything in the Free Expo, plus a suite of elevated VIP experiences designed to maximise your day:
- Exclusive keynote access + meet & greet
Connect directly with speakers after their sessions and be part of intimate post-presentation conversations - Priority access & reserved seating
Secure your spot at all expert-led presentations - All-day access to the WYNnovation Business Lounge
Recharge in a dedicated space featuring workstations, refreshments, and premium networking opportunities - After Dark Mixer invitation
Wrap up the day at an exciting evening networking event, featuring local hospitality, entertainment, and valuable connections
Free Expert-led Presentations
Gain practical insights and real-world strategies from leading experts across business, technology, wellbeing and brand protection — all included in your free expo experience:
- Osher Günsberg, Mental Health Advocate
“So What? Now What? and Four Other Tools for Greater Resilience and Better Mental Health”
Discover simple, powerful tools to strengthen resilience and support your mental wellbeing in business and life. - John Burgess, Cyber Security & Digital Technologies Manager, Victoria University
“Artificial Intelligence: The New Cyber Security Threat Surface”
Understand emerging AI-driven risks and how to better protect your business in an evolving digital landscape. - Tess McCormack, GM Small Business Banking, CommBank
Business Masterclass
Learn practical strategies to manage cash flow, improve financial stability and support business growth. - Keeley Pasfield, IP Australia
“Protecting Your Brand with IP Rights”
Get clear, actionable advice on safeguarding your ideas, brand and intellectual property. - Emma Costin, Director, EQ Leaders
“10 Minutes to Reveal What Others See (That You Don’t)”
A unique, interactive experience using horses to uncover blind spots, build self-awareness and strengthen leadership presence.
Wyndham Pitch Competition Grand Finale
Hear five of Wyndham’s most exciting local entrepreneurs take the stage to pitch their ideas live, each tackling real opportunities and challenges aligned with this year’s theme, The Future is Local. From bold concepts to practical solutions, these pitches are designed to spark impact across how we live, work, create and connect.
But this isn’t just a showcase; it’s interactive. You’ll have the power to vote and help decide which idea stands out as the crowd favourite.
Powered by Press Play Ventures, a Melbourne-based startup accelerator championing early-stage founders, this grand finale brings together creativity, ambition and community in one dynamic session.
Come along, be inspired, and have your say in shaping the future of local innovation.
*Please note the above program is a guide and is subject to change
More information and details here
| Expo Admission | FREE via essential registration |
| Premium Admission | Limited capacity |
Pre-purchased Special offer for local businesses: use code FUTURELOCAL | $59 + ticketing fee $49 + ticketing fee |
| Purchased at the door *subject to availability | $79 + ticketing fee |
Wyndham Pitch Competition 2026
The Wyndham Pitch Competition closes 5pm, 30 March 2026.
Have an innovative idea or business solution for Wyndham? Apply now for the chance to pitch live at the Grand Finale.
Major Sponsor
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:
Event Supporters
Their ongoing support helps strengthen Wyndham’s innovation ecosystem and empowers local entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.
WYNnovation 2025: Making the Future Happen now
2025 theme, "Making the Future Happen Now," brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators who connected, learned, and exchanged bold ideas in an inspiring, high-energy environment.
Key Highlights
- WYNnovation Summit – 15 May 2025
The WYNnovation Summit featured a powerful lineup of speakers and conversations that continue to spark ideas and momentum across our community.
Simon Waller reminded us that deep thinking is the foundation of innovation. Winitha Bonney OAM delivered a moving keynote on the importance of authenticity and storytelling in leadership. Nornie Bero shared her passion for culture, country, and legacy — leaving a lasting impact.
Daniel Flynn challenged us to see how one moment can create a movement, inspiring attendees to take action with purpose.
Our local panel featuring Mamun Haque, Samuel Fragapane, and Mari Robert showcased the world-class talent and ideas thriving right here in Wyndham.
Special thanks to our major sponsor Victoria University and summit supporter All Green Nursery & Garden for their generous support.
- WYNnovation 2025 Pitch Competition – Open Challenge: Better City Enabled Through Technology
This year’s competition spotlighted bold ideas to shape a smarter, more sustainable Wyndham:
- First Prize:AI Mily – Mily Lee
- Runner-up:RegenX – Ishan Dan
- People’s Choice:Tala Thrive – Sonia Kaurah
- Wyndham Leaders Workshop – 27 May 2025
Held at Ironbark Fields and Pavilion, this strategic workshop brought together key local leaders and stakeholders to help shape the future Wyndham’s economic development strategy. Facilitated by Simon Waller, the session focused on identifying emerging priorities, innovation pathways, and collaboration opportunities to guide Wyndham’s long-term prosperity.
Independent Program
Throughout May, a series of business community-led events explored diverse perspectives on business and innovation:
- 6 May – Student Mentoring with Wyndham Entrepreneurs
Hosted by Wyndham Tech School, this session connected students with experienced local business owners for valuable guidance and career insights. - 9 May – Cracking the Code: Engaging and Retaining Gen Z in the Workforce
Delivered by Third Culture and supported by Workforce Australia, this interactive workshop at the Youth Centre, Hoppers Crossing focused on strategies for attracting and retaining Gen Z talent. - 13 May – Biznet Forum
Hosted by Wyndham Biznet at Village Cinema Werribee, this networking event featured industry speakers, local business showcases, and key updates on the future of work. - 20 May – Intro to CSIRO for Ag & Food Startups
Held at the CSIRO Food Innovation Centre, this session introduced startup founders to cutting-edge research partnerships and commercialisation opportunities. - 30 May – Business Development Workshop from Vision to Action: Strategic steps to make it happen now
Delivered by 3minds consulting at the Cowork + Create coworking space, this workshop helped founders and business owners turn bold ideas into strategic action.
WYNnovation 2024: The Festival powering Human Connection
WYNnovation 2024 redefined innovation through the lens of human connection, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
The event embarked attendees on a transformative journey, where the heartbeat of a diverse city met the pulse of hidden potential. The theme, "Human Connection," celebrated the extraordinary possibilities that arise when diverse minds unite, exploring the untapped realms of collaboration in the age of technology.
The Festival featured a series of highlights: the experiential Masterclass, the dynamic Summit, the fireside Networking by Night, the thrilling Grande Finale Pitch Competition, and the celebratory Wrap Party. Each component showcased the essence of our city and collaboration, making WYNnovation 2024 an unforgettable experience.
Stay tuned for future events as we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible through the power of human connection.
For the latest updates sign up to Business Matters.
Wyndham wins National Economic Development Award for Excellence in Strategic Thinking for WYNnovation 2024
Wyndham City Council won the Award for Excellence in Strategic Thinking for WYNnovation 2024: The Festival of Human Connection. This award recognises best practice strategies where economic development outcomes are at the heart of the approach adopted.
These awards acknowledge remarkable Australian economic development professionals and organisations who are employing best practice innovation and creativity to improve communities across the country, demonstrating leadership and excellence in economic development.
This recognition of economic development excellence in such a competitive national field is a significant achievement. Wyndham proudly shares this award with the diverse community of collaborators internally and externally to deliver impactful economic development initiatives such as WYNnovation to support Wyndham's local businesses.