GET YOUR EARLY BIRD TICKETS - OFFER ENDS APRIL 18th, 2026
WHAT IS FWD>>>FEST?
THE ULTIMATE FESTIVAL FOR RIDING THE WAVE OF THE ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY
FWD>FEST is a multi-day business festival for entrepreneurs and innovators and their support system.
It's a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and innovators to meet on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and fast track their journey by connecting with others who also think differently, believe in creating something of value, and are prepared to ride the wave of highs and lows that invariably come with the territory.
FWD>FEST originated in 2022 when the team from Silicon Coast, based on the Sunshine Coast Queensland, dreamed of providing a platform for their world of entrepreneurs, innovators and supporters to come together and collaborate in an environment of support. For four years this dream has been a reality connecting thousands.
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"FWD>FEST drives economic growth and sustainable futures by connecting the people shaping them. We're proud to support this festival as it powers regional innovation and blend innovation with liveability."
Hon. Andrew Powell, 2025
QLD Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation
2026 SPEAKERS
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FWD>>>FEST 26 PROGRAM
TUESDAY 19th MAY
FWD>WELCOME
5.30am - 7.30pm
The Surf Club, Mooloolaba
WEDNESDAY 20th MAY
FWD>KEYNOTE
7.30am - 9.00am
Wharf Events, Mooloolaba
FWD>DAY ONE
9.00am - 5.15pm
The Wharf, Mooloolaba
FWD>AFTER HOURS
5.30pm - 7.30pm
Savvy Squire, Mooloolaba
THURSDAY 21st MAY
FWD>DAY TWO
8.30am - 4.00pm
Altitude Nine, Maroochydore
FWD>CELEBRATE
5.30pm - 9.00pm
Venue: Coming soon
“The calibre of thought leadership presented at FWD>FEST, spanning responsible AI, innovation, global business readiness, and collaborative compliance leadership, clearly demonstrates that the Sunshine Coast is not waiting for 2032 to step onto the world stage.”
Rosanna Natoli
Sunshine Coast Mayor
Dave Clare
Circle Leadership, Founder & CEO
“If you want to move your organisation forward fast, you've got to come to FWD>FEST. “
"FWD>FEST 25 was a powerful reminder of the strength and ambition within the Sunshine Coast innovation community. The conversations and connections made reaffirmed that regional collaboration is driving not just new ideas, but real impact for the future of Australian innovation."
Mark Woodland
Founder & CEO of Kismet