Enterprize Tasmania has appointed fintech investor and startup leader Brian Collins as its new Chief Executive Officer, as the organisation expands its role across the state’s startup network.
The not-for-profit group operates hubs in Hobart and Launceston. It said it has more than 220 members across more than 100 companies. It runs coworking spaces, workshops and startup events.
Enterprize said its programs are open to Tasmanian residents and participants across Australia.
Leadership change
Collins is a co-founder of Triple Bubble, a fintech-focused fund. He also serves as Deputy Chair of FinTech Australia. He has worked with founders through Startupbootcamp’s fintech programs in Australia and has advised on fintech and venture capital with organisations including AWS and major banks.
Collins linked the role to a bigger ambition for the state’s innovation profile.
“I’ve fallen in love with the innovation ecosystem in Tasmania. Now I want the rest of Australia and the world to do the same,” said Brian Collins, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprize Tasmania.
Collins described Enterprize as a founder-led effort with early backing from philanthropy and government.
“Enterprize began as a founder-led effort, backed by philanthropy, built on hustle, ingenuity, and a willingness to back ideas before they were proven. Early support from the State Government, Detached Cultural Organisation, and later the City of Hobart and the City of Launceston, helped turn that ambition into a statewide platform,” said Collins.
Hubs and members
Enterprize said it has hosted thousands of events over its first decade. It also said its hubs in Hobart and Launceston are nearly at capacity.
“Now, it’s gone on to host thousands of events, amassing over 220 members from over 100 companies. Its hubs in Hobart and Launceston are nearly at capacity. The next step is to grow further by showcasing what’s been created, why it’s special and how other startups and organisations can get involved,” said Collins.
Growth claims
Enterprize pointed to reported performance data from companies based at its hubs. It set this against small business benchmarks in Tasmania.
“This is so important for Tasmania as a state and Australia more broadly. Our data shows that startups are outpacing other small businesses in terms of revenue and growth. Startups and growth companies based at Enterprize have reported an average annual revenue growth of around 126% and employment growth of 44%, compared with 3.39% and 5.3% respectively for Tasmanian small businesses,” said Collins.
The organisation also referenced examples of Tasmania-linked technology businesses.
“Tasmania is no longer just a destination for an innovation retreat. It’s the launchpad for Australia’s next unicorn. The global success of design application Procreate and geospatial technology company Geoneon speaks to this. They are the first of many companies that we expect will flourish as the state’s startup reputation accelerates,” said Collins.
Board view
Phaedon Stough, a Board Member at Enterprize Tasmania, said the appointment marked a change in pace for the organisation.
“This is a watershed moment for our organisation. Over the past 10 years, we’ve worked to put Tasmania on the map. That job is already done,” said Phaedon Stough, Board Member, Enterprize Tasmania.
Stough also pointed to Collins’ previous involvement with Enterprize.
“Now, it’s about scaling and multiplying those efforts, and Brian is perfect for the job. He’s come full circle with his career, initially starting out helping us grow our programs as an entrepreneur in residence five years ago. As our CEO, he’ll not only champion the state as a place to grow a company, but help it realise its full potential,” said Stough.
Enterprize said the appointment comes as it looks to expand participation in its programs and increase activity across its statewide network of founders, operators and investors.
