The awards programme assists students to develop, learn and explore their individual entrepreneurial passions, according to Mayor of Moreton Bay Peter Flannery, who added:
“These awards are all about giving students the confidence to transform what might be a dream or a small scheme into something big that could really make a difference to our community.”
He said that those taking part in the MTIA will have an opportunity to connect with industry mentors who can help each participant develop skills while also promoting key attributes such as critical thinking to assist in turning creative ideas into reality. In addition to mentoring sessions with local leaders and experts, they will also engage with universities, TAFE, schools, councils and the mayor.
Eight local schools comprising 21 teams entered the innovation awards last year and, according to the Mayor, they came up with a great array of ideas and innovative solutions for everything from life-saving smart bands to temporary affordable housing.
Flyer printing campaigns throughout the schools have often helped attract entries to major initiatives such as the MTIA, which has prizes in excess of $10,000 on offer, as well as school trophies, certificates and the Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Applications in Phase One close on 20 March with finalist teams to be announced on 20 March.