Cicada x Tech23

Australia’s biggest deep tech event

Cicada Innovations proud custodians of this long running event, that spotlights the best Australian science, innovation, and technology, and celebrates the people with big ambitions behind them.

Cicada x Tech23 is where bold ideas connect with the community ready to make them happen. The event connects visionary founders to a network of investors, leaders and big thinkers – inviting the ecosystem to support game-changing people and businesses that can revolutionise our world.

The 23 startups representing the class of '24 are dedicated to tackling global challenges and driving advancements that will lead to enduring growth, enhanced health, and a sustainable future.

Meet the 23

The future is being built today— let's build it together.

The second edition of Cicada x Tech23 took place Wednesday 7th August in Sydney. 23 visionary founder were selected from across Australia to share their stories. This event isn't about pitches and presentations. It's about conversations. It's about understanding the people behind the technology - their dreams, their struggles, their missions.

Leaders from across the deep tech ecosystem and beyond brought unique perspectives and energy to help steer the conversations that could define the future of innovation in Australia.

Download Event Program

Glimpse into the future, then do your part to make it a reality

Everyone has a role to play at Cicada x Tech23. We gather the deep tech village of investors, business leaders and policymakers and ask “everyone to imagine our own roles in building a better and brighter future.”

Be part of 2025

Systems not silos

The interconnected nature of our world demands a shift toward systemic thinking and design. We must tackle global problems from multiple angles simultaneously. Governments, businesses, and communities must align on a grand vision, recognising that deep tech solutions require a complex, collaborative approach to thrive.

At Tech23 we will explore five systems, from the built environment to human health, where we'll envisage decades ahead, imagining alternative futures and unveiling the technologies and entrepreneurs that can get us there.

A Waste Free World

How can advancements in sustainable production and waste shift us to a circular economy?

Forging Industrial Futures

How can emerging deep technologies create the blueprint of tomorrow’s industrial landscape?

Resilient Farm & Food Systems

How can deep tech innovations enhance the resilience and sustainability of our agricultural practices and food supply chains?

Shifting the Mindset on Medicine

How can emerging deep tech innovations transform our understanding and practice of healthcare?

Urban Ecosystems Reimagined

How can deep tech solutions transform urban environments into sustainable, interconnected ecosystems for all?

Meet the 23

Rewriting Australia's deep tech narrative

Read our Cicada x Tech23 2023 Insights Report which underscores the breadth and diversity of deep tech businesses and talent we have here in Australia.

The pivotal role of collaborations and partnerships in developing and bringing solutions to market
Some of the persistent challenges of 'scaling' deep tech businesses
The need for a 'systems' approach to seeking out and supporting deep tech ventures

Read the Insights