Riding the Wave of Innovation

2025 June 14. 09:37

Blog post author

Written by

Jeff Teale

FWD>>>FEST 25 Sparks Entrepreneurial Energy on the Sunshine Coast

From May 7–9, 2025, the Sunshine Coast transformed into a vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship during FWD>>>FEST 25. This three-day festival brought together over 50 speakers, 20 sessions, and seven venues, all unified by the theme "Riding the Wave." The event was meticulously designed to foster meaningful connections, inspire collaboration, and drive lasting impact among entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers.

A Festival Designed for Connection and Impact

What set FWD>>>FEST 25 apart was its intentional design that encouraged attendees to engage deeply with the content and each other. The festival catered not only to startups but also to professionals from various sectors, including education, creative industries, and youth organizations. This inclusive approach created a dynamic environment where diverse perspectives converged to explore future-focused collaborative projects.

Highlights from the Festival

  • Keynote Speakers: The festival featured inspiring talks from notable figures such as Mark Visser, a world-renowned big wave surfer and mindset coach, who shared insights on resilience and seizing opportunities.

  • Diverse Sessions: Attendees participated in sessions like "From Niche AI Innovation to Global Powerhouse," exploring the journey of Leonardo.ai, and "More Than Undies: Bold, Circular, Human," highlighting the success story of Knobby, Australia's first subscription underwear brand.

  • Youth Engagement: The festival actively involved young entrepreneurs, providing them with platforms to pitch ideas, engage in Q&A sessions, and connect with mentors, exemplifying a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators.

Looking Ahead

As FWD>>>FEST 25 concluded, the momentum continues with plans already underway for FWD>>>FEST 26, scheduled for May 20–22, 2026. The festival's ongoing success underscores the Sunshine Coast's growing reputation as a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation.

For more information about the festival and upcoming events, visit the official FWD>>>FEST website: fwdfest.co.