Leading integrated facilities services provider Spotless Group and global start-up accelerator network Startupbootcamp, have partnered to host a two-day Internet of Things (IoT) and DataTech hackathon at Australia’s iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Spotless Hack at the ‘G invites Australian’s creative minds in the tech and startup community to create solutions to real problems and enhance Spotless’ customer offering across sectors such as food and venue management, facilities and asset maintenance, cleaning, waste management and security.
Participants will learn from technical experts during the lead up seminar series and throughout the event, as well as from world class mentors and fellow hackers.
Winning teams have the opportunity to win $10,000 cash and six months of space at Startupbootcamp’s startup workspace, as well as access to Amazon Web Services and Sigfox network and development kits.
Commenting on the partnership Trevor Townsend, Startupbootcamp Melbourne’s Managing Director said: “We are delighted to be offering some really interesting business challenges that the tech and start-up community wouldn’t normally encounter.
“IoT makes Things come Alive and we are looking forward to showing how leading-edge thinking and digital technology will continue to improve and enhance service delivery. This will ultimately benefit Spotless customers and the wider community, from spectators at sporting venues such as the MCG through to people’s experiences at airports”.
The partnership comes after Spotless recently refreshed its business strategy, which identifies fostering innovation as a key priority for its Board and Executive Leadership Team. The C-Suite is highly engaged and supportive of the innovation program and understands its importance for the business and customers.
What is Spotless looking to achieve?
Julian Fogarty, Spotless’ General Manager of Brand, Innovation, and Technology said a core component of the company’s strategy is to enable diverse, entrepreneurial and customer-centric thinking to drive organic growth. By investing in external strategic programs, partnerships and events, Spotless is demonstrating to customers and shareholders its commitment to pioneering industry-leading services.
“We are collaborating with universities, start-ups, suppliers, research institutions and our customers to become a smarter Spotless. Many emerging trends like IoT, are quickly becoming disruptive forces in our industry and for our customers, we want to be at the forefront of developments. From smart beacons to drones to robots, the capability for objects to communicate and interact with each other and with the public has the potential to completely transform the services and experiences we offer our clients,” Fogarty said.
“Partnering with an innovative and forward-thinking organisation like Startupbootcamp aligns with Spotless’ strategy to connect and collaborate with Australia’s local tech and startup community to commercialise ideas that positively impact our customers, our people and our business.”
“We believe events like the Hack at the ‘G will lead greater engagement between corporates and startups. In order for Australia to have a thriving innovation ecosystem, we believe corporates need to do more to connect and partner with the startup community and we want to play a key role in this process,” he said.
“Startupbootcamp is recognised as one of the most successful accelerators in the world. It has a proven track-record in connecting corporates to the startup and entrepreneur community by running events like hackathons and programs that address real businesses challenges and opportunities.”
Spotless Hack @ the ‘G will be held on 21-22 November at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Please click here for more information about how to apply.
