https://www.deakin.edu.au/__data/assets/image/0004/2865370/20943_950x475_external-image-of-manufutures.jpg

ManuFutures driving innovation in advanced manufacturing

Empowering startups, creating jobs and shaping the future of manufacturing.

ManuFutures is a cutting-edge advanced manufacturing innovation hub and business accelerator located within Deakin University's Future Economy Precinct at the Waurn Ponds campus.

Developed in partnership with the Victorian Government and launched in 2018, the $13 million hub provides state-of-the-art flexible spaces to emerging Australian enterprises involved in sustainable manufacturing industries, and a vast breadth of technological, business, peer and expert academic support.

First-class research with local community impact

Over commercial lease terms of one to five years, ManuFutures offers participants a stimulating and supportive environment with access to the research, knowledge, staff and student base of the University. Participants work alongside internationally recognised experts in their field of collaborative innovation, accessing advanced equipment and multidisciplinary business and technical expertise, both from Deakin and partner organisations.

Facilities at ManuFutures include collaborative working areas, breakout spaces and meeting and video-conference rooms. An extensive range of business support is also provided, where participants benefit from project management support and mentoring, business development and planning, financial planning and capital-raising assistance.

Prior to acceptance into the ManuFutures program, participants are reviewed to ensure alignment with Deakin’s strategic plan, with emphasis on three key metrics: student internships, research partnerships and regional jobs.

Fostering local growth and global competitiveness

ManuFutures has been established to create the jobs of the future for local communities and beyond through world-class innovation and research. Once home to companies such as Ford, International Harvester, Shell and Alcoa, the Geelong region has evolved to capitalise on new economic opportunities and priorities as these industries declined.

‘Deakin University is committed to the communities we serve and ManuFutures is a key part of our commitment to ensuring new industry growth and job creation in Geelong and across our State, so that industry can be globally competitive while based in Australia,’ says Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Alfred Deakin Professor Julie Owens.

Starting out on my own was daunting. ManuFutures provided a huge amount of support, including time management strategies, access to grants and a group of really helpful people.

Nigel Petrie

Director, Engineered To Slide

Deakin’s supporting role in ManuFutures

Deakin’s support of ManuFutures is extensive. Advice on real business and community challenges is close at hand, with Deakin Research Innovations’ support spanning the full commercialisation journey from IP licensing to contract development and raising capital.

‘Being based at ManuFutures has embedded us in an environment where we can access like-for-like businesses who are on the same journey,' said Jon Partington, owner of bicycle wheel manufacturer Partington CC, located at ManuFutures.

'We work with mentors and get advice in business, law and technology, and we have access to talent. We employ Deakin graduates and expect to employ more.'

Collaborations between ManuFutures’ businesses, Deakin researchers and research students have proven to be mutually beneficial. Deakin researchers and research students gain experience, education, training and potential employment opportunities in real-world industries. Seeing their research ideas translated into real applications from idea, to proof-of-concept, to commercial production provides invaluable experience for ambitious new ventures.

The critical mass of advanced manufacturing industries on site means the region also wins, benefitting the economy of Geelong, regional Victoria and beyond.

ManuFutures powers innovation and job creation

ManuFutures powers innovation and job creation

Since it was established in 2018, the ManuFutures innovation hub has accelerated 12 start-ups, contributed $15 million to gross regional product, generated $60 million in company value and created over 120 new jobs.

Deakin's Future Economy Precinct: Innovation accelerated

The ManuFutures innovation hub is located in Deakin’s Future Economy Precinct in Waurn Ponds.

Built up through 17 years of strategic investment from Deakin, local, State and Federal governments, Deakin’s Future Economy Precinct is an advanced manufacturing research and development resource unparalleled in Australia.

Research institutes and facilities on-site include the Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training, the Institute for Frontier Materials, the Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation, the Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute and the Institute for Health Transformation. The $34 million Carbon Nexus carbon fibre and composite research facility and the $103 million Australian Future Fibres Research and Innovation Centre (AFFRIC) are other world-class resources on-site.

The shared location between these institutes and enterprises means manufacturers and other industry partners can access world-class research expertise, specialised research equipment and industrial-scale infrastructure.

The precinct is well on its way to becoming Victoria's epicentre of research and innovation in advanced manufacturing, materials, energy, sustainability, technology, health and high-value agriculture. It now supports 12 thriving companies, including global carbon fibre wheel manufacturer Carbon Revolution and Quickstep Holdings, Australia’s leading independent manufacturer of carbon fibre components for the Aerospace industry.

Trailblazing success stories from ManuFutures

ManuFutures has been a launchpad for numerous innovative companies that have not only thrived but also garnered prestigious recognition. Here are a few standout success stories:

  • FLAIM Systems – This company, which designs and manufactures augmented reality firefighter training systems, started as an idea at ManuFutures. Now valued at over $6 million, FLAIM Systems has grown to employ 23 people. It has earned accolades such as 'Victoria’s Small Business Exporter of the Year' at the Governor of Victoria Export Awards in 2019 and numerous other local and national awards.
  • Partington Advanced Engineering – Known for its award-winning bicycle wheels, this company specialises in cutting-edge carbon fibre technology. Partington’s R-series carbon fibre wheels were recognised with the 2020 Australian Good Design Awards in both the Engineering Design and Sport and Lifestyle categories.
  • ACCIONA Energy & Deakin Collaboration – Deakin students and academics are teaming up with ACCIONA Energy to create a ‘Cruiser Class’ solar vehicle, marking the company’s debut into vehicle production. This project will engage up to 500 students from undergraduate to PhD and Master’s level, showcasing Deakin’s commitment to sustainability and hands-on learning.

Find out more about ManuFutures