2019 Westpac Innovation Challenge launched

Start-ups urged to develop data solutions specific to insurance for a chance to win $50,000

2019 Westpac Innovation Challenge launched

Insurance News

By Mina Martin

Westpac is inviting start-ups, scale-ups, and entrepreneurs to create a solution using data to solve a business problem specific to insurance, micro business, energy, aged care, or government for the chance to win $50,000 and professional support to grow their business.

Now in its sixth year, the Westpac Innovation Challenge explores an emerging opportunity in the business landscape and aims to identify the next generation of businesses that will lead Australia into the future.

“Data is expected to enable a new wave of product innovation from start-up businesses focused on business solutions and customer experiences across a range of sectors,” said Kate Cooper, Westpac head of innovation. “We’re looking for innovative ideas that help businesses which operate in highly regulated or scrutinised sectors overcome unique challenges and deliver value for customers. A key part of the challenge this year will be involving Westpac’s commercial and institutional customers and enabling a platform for innovative start-ups to meet potential customers and collaborators.”

Five finalists will be selected to pitch their idea on Dec. 04 in front of a live audience and a judging panel consisting of:

  • Alastair Welsh – acting chief executive of Westpac business division;
  • Dawie Olivier – general manager of Westpac Next;
  • Brad Delamare – CEO of Tank Stream Labs;
  • David Walker – chief technology officer of Westpac Group;
  • Emma Lo Russo – CEO of Digivizer (CXO Disrupter of the year in 2018);
  • Catriona Wallace – founder and CEO of Flamingo AI; and
  • Jamie Leach – CEO of Open Data Australia.

Visit the Westpac website for more information and to apply. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Oct. 20.

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