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Mira Murati

Maybe those shouldn’t have been there in the first place

In a recent statement that has sparked considerable debate, Mira Murati, CTO of OpenAI, claimed that AI will eliminate some...

27 June, 2024
Tixel

Tixel’s Breakthrough Moment

Introducing Tixel, the recipient of the Pause Awards 2023 in the ‘Defiant ones’ category under Excellence Category Track.  Tixel is...

16 April, 2024
Amy Webb and Adam Spencer

Do we want to live in a Black Mirror world?

Amy Webb, the renowned quantitative futurist, sits down for a captivating conversation with Adam Spencer, the Australian comedian, and media...

17 October, 2023
Pause Originals 2023

Four new emerging directors envision sustainable future beyond 2050

Emerging directors shine in Pause Originals’ latest premiere, exploring 2050’s sustainable world. UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and Kate Raworth’s Doughnut...

6 October, 2023
100

Always be closing & IPO, no?

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

24 September, 2023
Ecosystem leaders

Strong commitment needed to run tech events in Australia revealed at GEC23

Australia’s top ecosystem builders share their experiences, challenges, and opportunities in organising large-scale tech events at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress...

24 September, 2023
iPhone 15

iPhone 15 event: everything about Apple’s new product line

Apple’s major event brought forth the iPhone 15 series, USB-C charging, Neural Engine and a carbon-neutral Apple Watch. Read a...

14 September, 2023
Wrap 99

I got 99 problems

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

26 August, 2023
A

Is AI the new frontier of creativity and business

We explore analytical trajectory of AI with industry leaders Stephen Foxworthy, Fiona Triaca, and Dr. Joseph Badr. Unpack the complexities,...

25 August, 2023
Brand experience

Experience is a new frontier for brands

Explore the intersection of brands and digital spaces, drawing insights from industry experts, aka Pause Awards judges. We’re talking about...

18 August, 2023
Twitter to X

Twitter to X: a rebrand to challenge tech giants and empower users

Twitter is now X — and the one thing marketing gurus and contrarians have in common is their condemnation of...

4 August, 2023
DJ Equipment

Hit it, DJ! and other local newsings

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

24 July, 2023
BODD Technologies

Mapping the future of fit and function

Dive into the journey of Bodd Technologies, the innovative company revolutionising the fit and wellness industry. Learn about their growth,...

23 June, 2023
Sam Altman OpenAi

OpenAI’s Sam Altman says hai

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

19 June, 2023
Mercedes F1 Petronas

Life in the fast (tech) lane

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

24 April, 2023
evee — Pause Awards 2022

evee rides the electric wave

Discover how evee, an Australian EV rental platform, secured a whopping $1.6 million in equity crowdfunding and plans to ride...

18 April, 2023
Ai Platforms

Top AI tools you need to try now

It seems like everyone has waited on ChatGPT to arrive to release their own versions of AI. Anyhow, it’s madness...

29 March, 2023
Louise Fisher, LunchFox

A journey to revolutionising healthy school lunches

An in-depth conversation with the inspiring entrepreneur behind the award-winning HealthTech startup LunchFox. After winning the coveted ‘I Wish I’d...

28 March, 2023
SVB

Panic! at the SVB & metrics that matter

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

16 March, 2023
ChatGPT

Deep dive with ChatGPT about Aussie tech ecosystem

My next guest is a true leader in the field of artificial intelligence. ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is a cutting-edge...

17 January, 2023
Breakfast with Champions AWS Startups

Learning from mistakes and how to tackle the upcoming headwind

We know that mistakes propel us forward, but how do we make them recognize them and learn from them ss...

14 December, 2022
Pause Awards Winner 2023

Women and purpose led businesses take the most wins at Pause Awards ‘22

The annual business awards programme for the most ambitious and forward-thinking companies, Pause Awards has announced 50 bold winners for...

6 December, 2022
Professor Fiona Wood

Professor Fiona Wood – The pioneer of ‘Spray-on-Skin’ technique, ReCell.

Scientific brilliance and technological innovations make news on the daily – but often the stories that lead to them don’t...

6 December, 2022
Sunrise Conference

Rise and Demise

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

28 November, 2022
Pause Awards 22 Finalists, Great Wrap

82 Bold Finalists Announced for the Pause Awards ‘22

Announcing the 5th annual Pause Awards Finalists, powered by VicGov, that represent the most ambitious and forward-thinking companies in Australia. ...

10 November, 2022
Canva, Ignition Lane Wrap

Cash to splash & other VC news

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

2 October, 2022
Judge Sessions with Wavia, SEIKK and MedTech Actuator

Judge Sessions with Wavia, SEIKK and MedTech Actuator

Welcome to the Pause Awards show, where we invite past winners and future judges to talk about their journeys, inspiration...

26 September, 2022
Matt Vitale, Co-Founder Birchal

A word with Birchal’s Co-Founder – Matt Vitale

We’re less than 3 months away from our Awards Night. The nominations are pouring in, the judges are getting ready...

6 September, 2022
Peter Brennan, Heaps Norman and Analogue Digital

A word with Heaps Normal’s Head of Brand – Peter Brennan

By now you must be well versed with our community of champions and our commitment towards them. So in the...

9 August, 2022
Starward whiskey, award winner San Francisco

Venture snapshot: down but not out

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

26 July, 2022
Birchal founders, party, equity crowd sourcing

Best equity crowdfunding year in Australia – $86m!

Aussie equity crowdfunding has hit a new high, with $86 million raised from more than 43,000 investments in FY22 making...

22 July, 2022
Canva, Sydney, Ecosystem, growth, startup, founders

Startup Genome ecosystem report 2022 review

Startup Genome is the world-leading policy advisory and research organisation for public and private organisations committed to accelerating the success...

10 July, 2022
Prof. Martin Green, father of solar cell, innovator

Professor Martin Green
– The father of solar cells

A world that’s struggling to solve climate change is more than ever in need of smart solutions and green energy,...

10 July, 2022
Dr John O'Sullivan, inventor of WiFi, CSIRO, Pause Awards Hall of Fame 2020 winner

Dr John O’Sullivan
– The inventor of modern WiFi

You may or may not have already heard of our very first Hall of Fame winner. And oh boy, was...

10 July, 2022
GO1, unicorn, education

M&A on the rise & the EV SPAC demise

Welcome to Ignition Lane’s Wrap, where they cut through the noise to bring you their favourite insights from the technology...

29 June, 2022
Pause Awards, the Porsche of awards for innovation

The Porsche of awards programmes with community at its heart

When it comes to growth, there are rebrands, and then there are rebirths. The new avatar of Pause Awards can...

21 June, 2022
Josh Howard | Pause Awards Judge

Single Use Ain’t Sexy
– Success Stories

According to WWF Australia, on average, Australians use 130kg of plastic per person each year. Less than 12% of that...

1 June, 2022

The most ambitious and forward-thinking companies in Australia revealed

In its fourth edition, the 2021 Pause Awards toast the bold individuals, startups, scaleups and large businesses for their outstanding...

24 November, 2021

Get to know:
Carolyn Breeze – Judge

Welcome to the Pause Awards show, where we invite past winners and future judges to talk about their journeys, inspirations...

24 August, 2021
Tom Leyden | Pause Awards Judge

Get to know:
Tom Leyden – Judge

Welcome to the Pause Awards show, where we invite past winners and future judges to talk about their journeys, inspirations...

3 August, 2021

Past winners:
where are they now?

Here is a short timeline of successful past Pause Awards winners who are still making waves in the ecosystem.  These...

24 June, 2021

What went into creating Vincent, a hyper-real digital human

Until very recently, directly mapping an actor’s performance onto photorealistic digital humans using real-time rendering was considered impossible. We’d seen...

21 January, 2020

See 2024 Winners

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Category tracks

The Culture track seeks entries that exemplify the development of an inclusive and collaborative workplace culture, crucial for organisational success and growth. Submissions should illustrate transformative strategies implemented across core business functions, reflecting expertise, leadership, and a clear vision. These strategies should demonstrate a positive impact on the business, its employees, stakeholders, and customers, showcasing how a nurturing culture contributes to overall growth and innovation.

The Excellence track celebrates businesses that have demonstrated remarkable success and impact within their industry, regardless of their size. Entries for this category should illustrate how the business's strategic execution, guided by visionary leadership and exceptional expertise, has significantly influenced the industry. The focus will be on the tangible outcomes of these strategies, highlighting the company's ability to innovate, lead, and leave a lasting impression in its field.

The Good track is focused on recognising companies dedicated to their mission of creating a positive societal impact. Entries should highlight innovative solutions aimed at addressing global challenges such as environmental sustainability, social equity, and community well-being. Successful submissions will demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to significant changes, tackling issues like gender inequality, social imbalance, and injustice, thereby setting a precedent for responsible and impactful business practices.

Awarded to a single entry in a category, Grand Prix is the top accolade in that category. To win the Grand Prix, the entire Judging Board must unanimously agree that the entry deserves the accolade of being the best in that category.

The Growth track is about showcasing how businesses have enhanced productivity and execution to make a significant impact in their market. Entries should highlight innovative strategies that have optimised the customer journey, leading to increased engagement and commercial success. This track is for those who have effectively used their understanding of the market and customer needs to scale their business and achieve notable growth.

The Operators track seeks entries that showcase leadership in fostering innovation within their ecosystems. Ideal submissions will highlight how your initiatives have catalysed the creation of new products or services, bolstered by a culture that uplifts internal teams and the wider community. This track celebrates those who drive progress by empowering voices and forging transformative connections in their industry.

Categories

  • Always Evolving New

    Acknowledges a culture of continuous learning and improvement within a company, encourages employee development, and always looks for ways to optimise and innovate operations.

  • Big & Mighty Culture New

    Recognises companies (51-1000 employees) for their exceptional efforts in cultivating a culture that champions innovation.

  • Diverse Co.

    Celebrates workplaces dedicated to fostering innovation through a vibrant tapestry of diverse talents and perspectives.

  • Small & Mighty Culture New

    Applauds small teams of fewer than 50 employees for their remarkable ability to foster innovation and set new benchmarks in their domain.

  • Work Sweet Work

    Acknowledges companies that have achieved extraordinary employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, creating an exemplary workplace culture.

  • Company of the Year

    Honours an outstanding company that not only showcases exemplary leadership and resilience but also demonstrates a clear, quantifiable impact over the past year.

  • Customer Obsessed New

    Applauds prioritisation, understanding and meeting the needs and expectations of their customers, including feedback, personalised services and ensuring high satisfaction.

  • Defiant Ones

    Recognises firms that lead technological innovation, setting new standards and defining the future of their industries.

  • Hammer

    Celebrates companies that have not only defined success on their own terms but have also concretely demonstrated their triumphs over the past year.

  • I Wish I'd Done That

    Applauds ingenious, simple solutions in niche markets that spark a universal sentiment of admiration.

  • On the Rise

    Celebrates early-stage startups, under 4 years, that have shown remarkable progress and success in their initial years.

  • Prodigy

    Recognises young visionaries under 30 with outstanding talents and achievements, setting them apart in their fields.

  • Singularity

    Highlights AI-driven companies that are pioneering new services or integrating AI to create innovative products.

  • Women in Business

    Celebrates female entrepreneurs and leaders who are forging paths for future generations by creating more equitable opportunities.

  • B-Good

    Recognises businesses that redefine commercial success by positively transforming our economic system for the benefit of all stakeholders.

  • Circular Pioneer

    Celebrates companies at the forefront of circular economy practices, making substantial and sustainable differences.

  • Ethical Leadership New

    Commends companies exemplifying leadership in environmental and social governance, setting standards in corporate responsibility and ethical practices.

  • Going Green

    Acknowledges companies leading large-scale sustainable initiatives, addressing critical areas like clean energy and environmental justice.

  • Collab New

    Honours strategic partnerships and alliances with other businesses to leverage complementary strengths, access new markets, and share resources for synergistic growth and innovation.

  • Design First

    Celebrates companies where design is the heartbeat of innovation, engaging the whole team in crafting groundbreaking products.

  • Going Global New

    Applauds companies that have expanded their reach globally, showcasing exceptional growth and international success.

  • Great Pivot

    Acknowledges companies that adeptly navigate change, leveraging insights to pivot towards delivering outstanding products.

  • Movement

    Recognises unforgettable event experiences that resonate emotionally, drive social change, or achieve viral status.

  • New Model

    Honours businesses revolutionising markets with elegant and disruptive business models.

  • Next Level New

    Applauds companies which had successful strategic acquisition and integration of another entity, staff or an asset that allowed them to further grow and scale their services.

  • Wildfire

    Celebrates companies that have rapidly and significantly impacted their marketplace, online and offline, setting new standards for success.

  • Angel

    Honours visionary angel investors who've significantly contributed to early-stage startups, guiding them toward success.

  • C-Suite

    Recognises exceptional leadership qualities in high-ranking executives, showcasing their management and interpersonal excellence.

  • Creative Maverick New

    Honours unconventional thinkers with exceptional abilities to execute typically unimaginable initiatives, expertly coordinate teams, secure funding or successfully launch multiple ventures.

  • Ecosystem Star

    Celebrates individuals who energise and nurture their communities, fostering engagement and advocacy.

  • Future Builder

    Recognises the determination and resilience of founders who've embarked on the challenging journey of starting their own ventures.

  • Quiet Achiever New

    Applauds the unsung heroes whose behind-the-scenes efforts have led to flawless project executions and exceeded expectations.

  • Splash Down Under New

    Acknowledges international companies making a noteworthy entrance into the Australian market, enriching the local business ecosystem.

  • TopCoder

    Recognises developers for their outstanding technical skills, clean code, and collaborative spirit.

  • Venture Cap

    Salutes venture capital firms with a track record of backing transformative businesses, contributing significantly to Australia's economic growth.

  • Visionary New

    Recognises effective leadership by setting a clear vision, motivating the team, and making strategic decisions that guide their business towards its goals.