The Women’s Innovation Network returns with three dynamic networking events across two regions, igniting it’s mission to connect, elevate and inspire women in STEAMM and innovation.
Over three powerful sessions, two in Darwin and one in Alice Springs, the Women’s Innovation Network NT (WINNT) reignited with renewed energy, bold ideas, and deep connection.
These weren’t lectures.
They were conversations.
From the opening words of our ‘First Light’ session, it was clear: this network is shaped from the inside out. Across the Territory, women came together not just to listen, but to share, challenge and imagine what’s possible when we move together.
What brought women to these events?
Curiosity.
Community.
The promise of something different.
What they found was space to speak with candour about what’s working, what’s missing, and what innovation means in our unique Northern context.
Stories That Stirred Us
From Central Australia’s Purple House, reimagining resource use for remote dialysis treatment, to Denise Dunn’s resilience in the face of funding and fulfilment challenges – real innovation stories surfaced, grounded in the Territory’s grit and ingenuity.
Speaker Michelle Taylor urged women to ‘claim your space’ and reminded us that fierce conversations are often the most necessary ones.
Wendy Pritchard reminded us: “Boldness doesn’t mean taking on masculine traits – you don’t need to act like a bloke.”
Themes emerged that crossed sector and geography:
Innovation as adaptation – not just tech, but mindset and systems.
Access to funding in Central Australia – and a need for visibility on grant opportunities.
Procurement pathways – many women called for demystifying NTG and Defence processes.
Pitch readiness – a strong appetite for pitch training, storytelling support, and safe spaces to share ideas.
Inclusion – recognising the absence of migrant, remote, and Aboriginal women in mainstream conversations.
Support – confidence, time, networks, and relief from the ‘grunt work’ were recurring needs.
Legacy – a network that not only connects but champions the next generation of Territory innovators.
Where to next?
Across all sessions, a vision emerged: WINNT as a vehicle not just for inspiration, but for real change. Women called for future discussions on:
AI and emerging tech
Market-led proposals
Grant-writing support
Regional innovation audits
Collaborating with limited resources
How to safely talk about early-stage ideas
There was also strong interest in peer mentorship models and pitch opportunities that lead to action, not just applause.
If you attended one our events, we’d love to hear what you thought.
Your feedback means we can shape this initiative into something truly valuable for women across the Territory.
While we’re still a small team, we care deeply about creating something meaningful and lasting here in the Territory. Every bit of support – from showing up, sharing your feedback, or inviting a friend – makes a real difference.
Thank you for being part of this from the beginning.
WINNT is about legacy. About reshaping what leadership, innovation, and collaboration look like in the NT, and who gets to be part of that story.
We’ll be announcing our next events soon. In the meantime, think about who’s missing from the conversation.
Who should be in the room next time? Who needs to know that they belong here?
Together, we’re not just creating a network – we’re building an ecosystem.
One that reflects the boldness, resourcefulness, and unique potential of Territory women.
We’re committed to showing up, improving, and growing with you.
A Thank You to our Sponsors
We’re incredibly grateful to Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the CDU RADICLE Centre for STEM Engagement for proudly sponsoring the 12-month event series across Darwin and Alice Springs
As a Territory-led initiative focused on confidence, visibility, and inclusion in STEM, the Radicle Centre plays a vital role in expanding what’s possible for women and girls across the NT.
Their support has helped us create a space where innovation, collaboration, and community come together, and where the next generation of STEAMM leaders can connect and grow.
Thank you for believing in the power of local women in innovation.
We’d also like to thank the Northern Territory Government for entrusting ACTIO Group with the stewardship of WINNT.
