Building Future-Ready Businesses in the Northern Rivers is a free series of business development events presented by RDA Northern Rivers in collaboration with AusIndustry, NBN Co, Industry Capability Network (ICN), Essential Energy and Northern Rivers Tech. The roadshow will run from Monday 2 March to Thursday 5 March 2026, visiting five locations across the region.
This initiative brings practical, region-relevant insights into digital transformation, energy transition, supply chain opportunities, innovation support and AI adoption, helping local manufacturers and small to medium enterprises become more competitive, resilient and future-ready.
What the Roadshow Offers
Digital Transformation with NBN Co
Participants will explore how regional connectivity improvements can support business digitisation, remote work, online services and expanded market reach, while also opening up pathways to education, training and capability building.
Energy Transition with Essential Energy
Attendees will hear how Essential Energy is contributing to a cleaner, more resilient energy future, including opportunities arising from renewable energy and infrastructure upgrades and ways businesses can capitalise on energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
Regional Opportunities with Industry Capability Network (ICN)
ICN will outline how local businesses can connect with major projects and supply chains, gain insights into tender and procurement opportunities, and showcase their capabilities to buyers at regional and national scales.
Innovation, Growth & Funding Support with AusIndustry
AusIndustry will share expertise on connecting businesses to funding, specialist advice and growth pathways, helping translate innovative ideas into productive commercial outcomes and boost competitiveness in a globally connected market.
AI Adoption for Business Growth with Northern Rivers Tech
A specialist will provide practical guidance on adopting AI technologies, demonstrating how AI can enhance efficiency, innovation and competitiveness with real-world examples suitable for small and medium enterprises.
Why Operators Should Attend
This roadshow provides direct access to industry and government expertise at no cost — a rare opportunity for regional businesses to:
- Gain practical, actionable insights tailored to the Northern Rivers context
- Connect with sector and government leaders supporting business development
- Explore clear pathways to funding, projects and capability support
- Build tools to make their business future-ready, agile and competitive.
Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your digital capability, explore renewable energy opportunities, tap into major supply chains, or grow through innovation and AI, this roadshow is designed to help you prepare for what’s ahead.
Roadshow Dates & Locations
The free events are scheduled as follows (all times local):
- Grafton – Monday 2 March 2026 | 1:45 pm
- Lismore – Tuesday 3 March 2026 | 9:45 am
- Casino – Tuesday 3 March 2026 | 1:45 pm
- Ballina – Wednesday 4 March 2026 | 9:45 am
- Tweed Heads – Thursday 5 March 2026 | 9:45 am.
Each session will provide the same core program, giving businesses across the region multiple opportunities to attend at a location convenient to them.
Register Now
This series is free to attend and designed to assist local manufacturers and SMEs to build more innovative, agile and competitive operations. Spaces are limited – businesses are encouraged to register early to secure their place.