IMPACTMAKER: ACCELERATING INNOVATION

Sydney continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation, research and industry collaboration. 

It was a pleasure to join with the UNSW Business School for an exclusive information session exploring the university's new initiative, ImpactMaker : Accelerating Innovation.

We were delighted to hear from Professor Paul Andon, Dean of the School, who opened the session by highlighting the importance of creating meaningful societal impact as a core priority of the Business School. 

Attendees also gained valuable insights from Professor Karin Sanders, Deputy Dean, UNSW Business School, who outlined the work of the Business Insight Institute and UNSW’s commitment to building partnerships that translate research into practical outcomes for organisations and communities.

A special thank you to Dr Christian Criado-Perez Ph.D. for introducing the ImpactMaker Initiative and facilitating an engaging panel discussion featuring:  

• Dr Dave Trudinger, Director, Behavioural Insights Unit at NSW Department of Customer Service
• Lisa Mastoras, Executive Manager Fundraising and Engagement, Fair Foundations, and
• Joel Pravin Vijayakumar, Head of Data Portfolio Management, AMPOL.

Their discussion showcased how collaboration between researchers and industry can help solve complex challenges, strengthen decision-making and deliver measurable impact across government, business and the not-for-profit sector.

We also thank Jacquie Page, Business Development Manager, UNSW – Knowledge On Demand, for outlining how organisations can engage with the initiative and explore future collaboration opportunities.

Innovation thrives when business, academia and government work together. Programs like the ImpactMaker are helping bridge the gap between research and real-world application, creating opportunities to drive productivity, solve pressing challenges and generate lasting economic and social impact.