We are delighted to announce Bendigo Community Bank as the major sponsor for the upcoming Social Innovators Pitch Night.

This is the fourth year the pioneering event, aimed at fostering innovation, community development, and positive social change will be held at the Hervey Bay Community Centre.

Pitch Night provides a platform for aspiring community changemakers to present their groundbreaking ideas aimed at addressing various social challenges faced by our community.

Scheduled to take place on October 9th, the Social Innovators Pitch Night will see passionate individuals and groups present their creative initiatives designed to tackle critical issues ranging from environmental sustainability to mental health, poverty alleviation, education, and more.

Up to $100,000 in funding is available for successful pitches.

Bendigo Bank Branch Manager, Tim Evans, said Bendigo Community Bank had a long-standing commitment to nurturing local talent and driving positive change in the communities it serves.

"By sponsoring the Social Innovators Pitch Night, we aim to further promote entrepreneurship, social responsibility, and collaboration among like-minded individuals and organisations," Tim said.

HBNC CEO, Tanya Stevenson, said Pitch Nights had supported dozens of ideas to come to life over the past few years.

"We are excited to see this event grow to continue to provide the opportunity for community members to pitch their projects to a panel of esteemed judges, community leaders, and investors. We believe in empowering local social innovators and providing them with the resources they need to create a lasting positive impact”.

The Social Innovators Pitch Night aligns with HBNC's new strategic plan to create strong and connected communities.

The event is open to all community members who have creative ideas and a passion for making a difference.

Whether they are seasoned social entrepreneurs or newcomers to the field, all are encouraged to participate and contribute to the event's success.

Each presentation will be assessed based on its potential impact, feasibility, and sustainability.

Winners will not only receive financial support but will also gain access to invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities.

For more information about the Social Innovators Pitch Night, including how to participate as a presenter or attend as an audience member, please visit: Pitch Night: Getting innovative ideas off the ground | HBNC.

About Bendigo Bank:

With over $500,000 given back to the Fraser Coast, the Community Bank Hervey Bay, a part of the Bendigo Bank, really is the better big bank.

Every day our customers help change lives, and save lives, simply by banking with us. Their home loans are building skate and sports parks, hospital wings and classrooms. Personal loans, business banking and credit cards are funding ambulances, rescue boats, disabled and aged care facilities.

Everyday banking is providing all this and more. In fact, $292 million has been returned to communities and initiatives Australia-wide.