The $9.8 million commitment from the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund will support the Hunter Innovation Project (HIP) - a partnership between Newcastle City Council, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle Now and Hunter DiGiT. 

HIP partners will contribute a further $8 million to install smart technology and Wi-Fi throughout Newcastle's CBD and build an innovation hub for researchers, industry and entrepreneurs to commercialise ideas and promote economic development. The HIP’s ‘smart-city’ infrastructure will allow businesses and innovators to leverage the region’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, health technology, renewable energy and education, and capitalise on the connectivity, reach and scale of the rapidly growing digital and knowledge economy.

It is the infrastructure component of the partners' broader ambition to generate significant activity in the regional innovation ecosystem. Last week's grant will support economic growth, jobs and spur innovation.

The HIP is a collaborative effort and a key component of Council's Smart City strategy to provide spaces, digital connectivity and city-data to increase opportunity for entrepreneurs and businesses. It will provide key infrastructure like Wi-Fi, smart parking and lighting.