AFL Gather Round is proving to be far more than a celebration of Australia’s favourite game, with the event attracting more than 120 interstate investors to South Australia in search of business opportunities.
Hosted by the State Government, the initiative is leveraging the national spotlight of AFL Gather Round to connect local companies with capital, networks and strategic partnerships that support innovation, expansion and job creation.
Throughout the festival, investors and fund managers from across Australia are attending a series of investment-focused events, providing South Australian businesses with a rare opportunity to pitch directly to private equity firms, venture capitalists and private debt providers.
Among the key players is Stone & Chalk, which will host a special event showcasing early-stage startups to interstate venture capital investors. The initiative hopes to help founders secure funding, build industry connections and scale their ventures.
The Gather Round investor program features a diverse lineup of industries, including eight innovative companies presenting to investors, ten defence and space businesses outlining future growth opportunities, nine sports technology companies showcasing their products to national sporting organisations and venue operators, and six early-stage startups pitching to venture capital firms.
“This important footy festival injects more than $110 million into the local economy, energising the state, creating new jobs and driving further investment,” shared Minister for State Development Chris Picton. “As well as attracting thousands of football fans from across the country, Gather Round is also drawing the attention of major investors and businesses.
“More and more, companies and fund managers are looking to South Australia to capitalise on our emerging industries, competitive tax system and strong government support. Our economy is going from strength to strength and events like Gather Round will ensure it continues to grow.”
Private equity and private debt continue to play a critical role in supporting business growth across the state, offering alternative funding pathways for companies looking to scale. In addition to financial backing, investors bring valuable expertise, networks and global connections that help local businesses expand into interstate and international markets.
The investor program builds on strong economic momentum for South Australia. Independent analysis found that last year’s Gather Round contributed a record $113.9 million to the state’s economy, while national reports have ranked South Australia as one of the best places in the country to do business.
Stone & Chalk South Australia General Manager Ben Colley said, “Stone & Chalk in South Australia is building a pipeline of high-growth companies that will increase the state’s economic complexity. By connecting these founders directly with interstate investors during Gather Round, we’re accelerating opportunities for capital, capability and long-term economic growth.”
With Adelaide comes to life from the excitement of the footy, the convergence of investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders is helping make a name for South Australia as a dynamic and attractive destination for business.
