Queensland soars with special Qantas Silicon Valley to Brisbane flight

The Palaszczuk Government has partnered with Qantas to charter a 747 aircraft to fly 360 entrepreneurs and investors – worth billions of dollars – from the world’s epicentre of startups and venture capital, Silicon Valley, to Brisbane for next year’s Myriad Festival.

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy Leeanne Enoch said today (Sunday) the unique flight experience, destined for Myriad from 16-18 May 2018, will further cement Queensland's reputation as the startup state.

“Myriad is the Asia Pacific’s most influential startup event, with last year’s festival in Brisbane attracting global investors representing a staggering $17 billion in funds under management,” Ms Enoch said.

“Next year’s event will be even bigger, with this special Qantas flight bringing 360 entrepreneurs and investors from Silicon Valley right to our doorstep.

“Those on board the flight from San Francisco will be representing billions of dollars in potential capital investment, and new business opportunities for Queenslanders.”

Ms Enoch said the flight pays homage to Qantas’ journey that began as a regional Queensland startup and is now a global company giving back to the state where it all began.

“This is a rare opportunity to show off everything Queensland has to offer and whet the appetite for all things innovation at Myriad, which is set to attract thousands of people next year,” she said.

“The flight experience will provide those on board, including some of Queensland’s own entrepreneurial talent, with 14 hours to network, collaborate, inspire and showcase our rapidly growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

In a global call-out, entrepreneurs and investors will be invited to join the chartered flight to Brisbane – with expressions of interest opening today (Sunday).

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said Qantas’ involvement with Myriad reflects the airline’s commitment to championing the best of Australia to the world.

“Ninety seven years ago Qantas was a startup itself and we are excited to be part of a festival that helps connect the world’s most innovative thinkers,” Mr Joyce said.

“Our direct San Francisco flights are very popular, with Australian startups looking to do business with the US’ world-leading technology companies.

“We are pleased to be helping more entrepreneurs from both countries share ideas and explore opportunities to help build a better future for everyone.”

The Qantas charter is being provided through the support of local entrepreneurs.

Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Mark Sowerby thanked the Palaszczuk Government and Qantas for locking in this landmark deal.

"This is amazing support that Qantas is giving to Queensland's startup ecosystem and reflects our state's culture of giving back. We're extremely grateful for this incredible opportunity," Mr Sowerby said.

Ms Enoch said Myriad 2018, to be held at Brisbane Showgrounds, will build on its successful debut in Brisbane this year.

“More than 2000 people participated in the 2017 event, and it gave 131 regional entrepreneurs an opportunity to connect with internationally acclaimed startups and entrepreneurs,” she said.

“Next year’s event will bring together the best ideas, investors and technology from around the world.”

The Palaszczuk Government is a strategic partner of Myriad, with a three-year sponsorship agreement with Myriad Live to host annual events from 2017 to 2019.

Advance Queensland is the Palaszczuk Government’s $420 million whole-of-government initiative, supporting jobs across a range of industry sectors.

For more information on Myriad and the Qantas flight, visit myriad.live.

ENDS

Minister Enoch’s office: 0437 859 987 Qantas media: 0418 210 005 qantasmedia@qantas.com.au