The second Groundswell Festival of Innovation kicks off today showcasing how people and businesses in the Bay of Plenty are pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Groundswell is a bold step towards ensuring an innovative and sustainable future for our region.

'With 10 events sold-out, the Prime Minister attending, and speakers joining us from all over the globe, Groundswell 2018 is set to be a stellar event,” says festival organiser Stacey Jones.

'Groundswell will bring together new and established events, thought and business leaders, and grassroots organisations, all joined by a common goal- to encourage collaboration, conversation and connection.”

The Festival is spearheaded by Priority One, and delivered with the support of key partners Tauranga City Council, TECT, UNO Magazine, Cucumber and Air New Zealand.

Groundswell 2018 will explore: the changing world we live in - and the associated challenges - how we can harness the power of innovation to solve problems and sustain future generations? Groundswell provides the opportunity to hear from inspiring people and organisations who are championing innovation locally, nationally and internationally.

"The festival shares invaluable knowledge, skills and experience through a varied program of events - including forums, presentations, workshops, networking events, open days and exhibitions. Groundswell celebrates innovation across all sectors - we've got events across entrepreneurship, business, education, health, agriculture, youth, and the arts,” says Stacey.

'As well bringing international speakers from the likes of Google, Tesla and IBM to the city, Groundswell also celebrates our city's thriving culture of local innovation,” says Priority One CEO Nigel Tutt.

'From start-ups to schools, community organisations to corporates, Tauranga's innovation ecosystem is thriving. Leading the charge are a diverse and dynamic group of individuals and organisations, passionate about seeing their city grow”.

'We don't know what the future of our region looks like, but we know it depends on the ingenious minds of today”, says Stacey.

Want to be part of the action?

Check out all Groundswell Festival of Innovation events here: https://groundswellfestival.nz/events

Free Events: https://groundswellfestival.nz/events