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The future of New South Wales’s night-time economy was the focus for last night’s 2024 Uptown Accelerator District Showcase during which teams of local businesses from across the state gathered at Fortress Sydney, unveiling innovative plans to transform their communities into must-visit going-out hubs.

Hosted by the NSW Office of 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, the Showcase concluded the Uptown Accelerator, a twelve-week program of workshops designed to transform local business communities into vibrant night-time destinations. For the first time, regional teams from Greater Newcastle, the Central Coast, and Illawarra-Shoalhaven participated alongside Greater Sydney.

Over 20 district teams presented their visions in two-minute pitches, captivating an audience of potential corporate and government partners including Organic Food Markets, American Express, and Local Councils. The pitches ranged in diversity and scope, with each dynamic presentation sharing insight into the changing going-out landscape across New South Wales.

Newcastle's array of independent bars joined forces to put Midtown on the map for their world-class brews and tunes, the eclectic team behind the Gosford Strip shared plans to invigorate the mainstay of the Central Coast into a cultural hotspot, and nights in Canley Heights are set to ignite with flavour and entertainment as Fairfield becomes the West’s destination for gourmet exploration and late-night entertainment.

The Uptown District Acceleration Program is a key initiative within the NSW Government's Vibrancy Agenda, bolstering the state's live performance, hospitality, and creative sectors and amplifying the growth of these vibrant going-out hubs, enhancing the night-time economy and creating more engaging experiences for residents and visitors alike.

The upcoming Round Three of the Uptown Grant Program will offer $5.5 million in funding to help district teams across the state fast-track these ideas into reality, with applications set to open this December.

NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues noted  “NSW is blessed with so many topographies, different nationalities and a story telling tradition dating back more than 60,000 years. We simply need to do a better job of elevating this tapestry for local communities and visitors to see and experience.  

“While a shrimp on the barbie and a parmy down the local have their well-earned spot on our cultural buffet, there is way more to discover, to enjoy and inspire. What Uptown does is give groups of like-minded businesses the skills they need to shape narratives and experiences by working together that has the power to draw visitors from near and far, time and again."

Seng Ly Managing Director VIP Karaoke Bar in Canley Heights shared “when I came into the Accelerator, I came with vision to grow my community, and the program helped reinforce and sharpen it into something actionable.

“The whole program was a great learning experience; I've gained the tools to collaborate with local leaders and other businesses to drive initiatives that will truly benefit my community.”

Amanda Choularton, Director of Organic Food Markets added "The Uptown District Showcase is a great opportunity to connect with diverse businesses across New South Wales and build partnerships with these local entrepreneurs to create unique experiences.

“As a market operator, working with a District means you already know that the demand is there, and the community support exists before you pitch your event to a consent authority.”

For more information, visit nsw.gov.au/uptowngrantprogam.

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