These fledgling businesses feel right at home in their new digs, which were purpose-built by CBRIN last year. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Big things are happening on Moore Street in the city, fuelled by brilliant minds and a solid vision.
You’ve probably heard of Canberra Innovation Network, or as they’re more affectionately known, CBRIN.
This not-for-profit is a key resource for any ground-breaking venture in our capital, but unlike some innovation incubators, its support doesn’t taper off after the start-up stage.
In fact, CBRIN recently worked with the ACT Government to build a $3.1 million facility for businesses that haven’t quite matured, but don’t fall under the ‘baby’ banner either.
Since opening in late 2024, the Level 4 ScaleUp Hub has welcomed 10 businesses into the fold. They’re spread across a range of sectors and specialties, from cybersecurity and software to health and venture capital.
Bluebird Advisory and Modern 42 are considered ‘scale-up’ companies. They’re bringing in revenue and have secured early customers, but still need a strong foundation to build on.
While looking for a new home base, both businesses decided Level 4 stood out against the rest.
Alexia Hunter founded Bluebird Advisory on a mission to truly partner with clients and bring about meaningful change. Her team combines technology and data services with expert consultancy.
“CBRIN was miles ahead of our other options, especially in terms of on-site support,” Alexia says.
“Bluebird covers a huge scope of work and our team is filled with creative, intelligent people. We’re very diverse, so it’s important to have both aspects supported, which CBRIN have done brilliantly.”
Diverse indeed – Bluebird staff have represented Australia in karate and archery, performed in the circus, earned a doctorate in astrophysics, and won multiple awards in all kinds of industries.
Female Founders events are held every two months. Their delivery is diverse, but the theme always celebrates women-led businesses. Photo: Kerrie Brewer.
What really drew Alexia in was CBRIN’s community. She’s a regular at on-site events, and as a single mum with three young kids, the Female Founders program has a special place in her heart.
“Our building is filled with people who genuinely want to make a positive impact, which is why I started Bluebird in the first place,” Alexia says.
“We’ve connected with businesses we probably wouldn’t have otherwise, including those in the same growth stage as us.
“Female Founders is so important to me and other women entrepreneurs. We all know what that glass ceiling looks like, so supporting each other makes me happy.”
Modern 42’s team was among the first to claim its space on CBRIN’s Level 4 hub. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Modern 42’s name is a play on the cult-classic series, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. In the story, the answer to ‘the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything’ is eventually revealed as the number 42.
When you work in an industry as serious as cybersecurity, lead engineering practice Rory Wade says a little playfulness can go a long way for morale.
“Carving out a great culture is so important for newer businesses. I think it’s pretty safe to say our team genuinely enjoy coming to work,” he says.
“Modern 42 was created to fill a critical gap in the cybersecurity landscape.
“Our specialist team integrates engineering solutions to solve cybersecurity problems, specifically in Identity and Access Management, Privileged Access Management, and the cloud infrastructure space.”
The niche might be a bit of a mouthful, but the beauty of Modern 42 lies in its agility.
The team started in CBRIN’s co-working spaces, moving into the ScaleUp Hub in November 2024. They were one of the level’s first residents.
“We already felt at home here, so we’re really glad we got to stay in the building,” Rory says.
“Our security and privacy requirements had to be met, but we still wanted to collaborate. Level 4 had that balance, plus we could access all the office amenities we needed without having to manage them.”
Modern 42’s founders were sold on the vision, but Rory thinks the delivery has been even better.
“I think a huge drawcard for Level 4 is the diversity of interests, ideas, and knowledge between all the businesses and their people,” he says.
“I love being able to grab lunch with someone who works in a completely different industry. Monthly First Wednesday Connect events are always insightful.
“If you’re scaling in Canberra and need some reliable support, I’d definitely recommend checking CBRIN out.”
To learn more about the Level 4 ScaleUp Hub or apply for residency, contact the team at Canberra Innovation Network.
