Brighter Super, a Queensland-based retirement fund, is investing $50 million into local startups through a new partnership with QIC an investment manager backed by the state government.
This investment aims to support startups that can deliver strong financial returns, create jobs, and boost Queensland’s innovation and economy.
QIC has already used this funding to support companies like Attekus, which helps local councils manage events, and SwarmFarm Robotics, which develops self-driving farm technology.
Brighter Super was formed by merging LGIAsuper, Energy Super, and Suncorp Super. It now manages over $34 billion in retirement savings for around 280,000 people.
QIC, which manages more than $127 billion in assets globally, invests in areas like infrastructure, real estate, private equity, and more. In Queensland, it has supported startups at all stages, including Go1, Gilmour Space Technologies, and VALD.
QIC CEO Kylie Rampa said the partnership with Brighter Super connects capital, capability and a commitment to Queensland.
“Since 2016, QIC has invested in more than 85 local businesses, enabling exceptional founders to create over 1,300 jobs building real-world solutions within a thriving, sustainable ecosystem,” she said.
“Now, leveraging this capability and a dedicated local team, QIC is proud to manage this mandate on behalf of, and for the benefit of, Brighter Super members.”
Brighter Super CEO Kate Farrar said they have a longstanding relationship with QIC.
“This partnership reinforces Brighter Super’s commitment to investing in Queensland under our Queensland Investment Strategy to support our local communities and members by allocating capital to meaningful Queensland-based opportunities,” she said.
“We believe that investing in these businesses can produce strong returns for Brighter Super’s members whilst contributing positively to Queensland’s economy and productivity.”
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