A week-long festival of innovation in August is set to showcase the diverse range of innovative and entrepreneurial activity taking place in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

It is hoped to provide a platform for the wider region's rapidly-developing innovation ecosystem.

Economic development agency Priority One is spearheading the Groundswell initiative, with support from Tauranga City Council, Bay of Connections, Callaghan Innovation, Tauranga Chamber of Commerce and Cucumber.

'Fostering a culture of innovation is fundamental to our region's future, and our ability to attract skilled and talented people, new business and investment,” says Priority One chief executive Nigel Tutt.

He says Groundswell, which runs from Monday, August 7 to Sunday, August 13, will demonstrate how Tauranga and the Western Bay are at the forefront of the innovation space and how local businesses and people are leading the way.

The cross-sectoral approach will take in innovation developments in marine, health, agriculture, education, creative arts, sports and the Maori economy. Groundswell brings together new and established events, thought leaders, businesses and organisations with a common goal of encouraging collaboration, conversation and connections.

The festival will share invaluable knowledge, skills and experience through a varied programme of forums, presentations, workshops, networking events, open days and exhibitions.

The full schedule of events is available at http://www.gswell.co.nz/