About Us
Overview
Established in 2019, Smart Precinct NQ is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a space for businesses and entrepreneurs physically, online and as a network to learn and grow.
We provide a range of services and programs to support businesses depending on where they are in their journey from start-up accelerators and incubator programs, business growth advisory services, investment support, events and supporting with communities to develop opportunities and skills.
We bring together a range of stakeholders to provide a positive impact to North Queensland Founders, Entrepreneurs, Investors, Industry, and the wider Business Community.
Our purpose is to create a vibrant ecosystem where innovation and business can thrive. As the saying goes, we believe that if you want to go fast – you go alone, but if you want to go far, we need to go together.
We work passionately to create a vibrant ecosystem of high growth companies that are globally competitive and based in North Queensland Australia and making Townsville and North Queensland a Great place to start and grow a business.
Smart Precinct is a registered social enterprise and a signatory to the Queensland Small Business Commissioners Small Business Friendly Charter. Founding members include the North Queensland Regional Operation of Councils and James Cook University.
Strategic Focus
- Build and strengthen the regional innovation ecosystem and economy.
- Develop a resilient and adaptable small business community
- Increase regional start-up formation and business growth (and capability);
- Support industry in solving their significant challenges; and
- Attract high growth business to North Queensland and attract experienced investment funds to NQ.
Education and Connections
Start-up and Incubation
Business Resilience
High Growth Business
Critical Industry Innovation
Our People
The power behind Smart Precinct NQ is the calibre of its people. The organisation is supported by a high calibre team of business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals with extensive connections and collaborations, business experience and professional expertise.

Shelley Grainger
General Manager

Caitlin Midson
Operations Manager

Suz Cardy
Head of Engagement

Eliza Lovell
Smart Hub Burdekin Lead

Jason Lange
Circular Economy Engagement Lead
Our Board

Ian Smythe (Chair)
Chief Academic Officer -Aviation Australia

Matt Thomson
Chief Executive Officer - Moore Australia

Mark Horn
Director of Strategic Development Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia - Cubic Defence Australia

Professor Simon Biggs
Vice Chancellor - James Cook University

Tristan Davey
Staff Software Engineer -Ordermentum

Suzy Wilson
General Manager - Townsville Bulletin

Ian Atkinson
Director, AI - James Cook University

Matt Steine
Founder - DataMeld
Founding Members


Affiliations and Associations



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