F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Brisbane, Australia #112

City Scores

City Total Score

4.945

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.58

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.86

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

3.5

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

72

Startup Ecosystem in Brisbane 🌟

TL;DR

Brisbane is currently ranked as the 112th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. This vibrant city combines a rich cultural scene with a growing tech ecosystem, making it a blossoming destination for startups and entrepreneurs alike.


Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Brisbane offers straightforward online registration processes with minimal paperwork.
  • Startup Incentives: Queensland government provides tax incentives and grants specifically designed for tech startups.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive labor laws ensure employee rights, though understanding complex provisions can be daunting for small startups.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Friendly visa policies encourage the hiring of skilled overseas workers, but do require necessary permits.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: The standard corporate tax rate in Australia is 30%, with eligible startups benefiting from lower rates.
  • GST Regulations: Competitive Goods and Services Tax (GST) structures, giving a slight advantage to startups in the service sector.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: High, featuring a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful parks, and excellent amenities. However, housing prices have been on the rise.
  • Culture and Leisure: A vibrant art scene, numerous festivals, and outdoor activities cater to diverse interests.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Generally user-friendly bureaucratic processes, but navigating local regulations can be time-consuming.
  • Government Support: Various programs exist to support innovation, with direct avenues for mentorship and guidance.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Brisbane offers pathways for foreign entrepreneurs, including startup and business innovation visas.
  • Residency Options: Multiple options for long-term residency are available for qualified overseas entrepreneurs.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Frequent meetups and workshops foster a collaborative spirit amongst entrepreneurs, with annual events drawing attention from investors worldwide.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Strong governmental and local support through grants aimed at tech-focused initiatives.
  • Access to various incubator programs that provide funding opportunities and business support.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: An emerging VC scene actively seeking innovative ideas across sectors.
  • Major Firms: Several local and international VC firms eyeing opportunities in Brisbane’s growing startup ecosystem.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A diverse array of incubators available, particularly in sectors like healthtech, edtech, and environmental technology.
  • Support offerings often include mentorship, workspace, and funding access.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Health & Biotech, Sustainable Technologies, Fintech, and Digital Media.
  • Government Initiatives: Emphasis on fostering innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: English is the primary business language, making it accessible for both locals and expats.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative and inclusive, with a high degree of openness to new ideas and approaches.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Thriving community with ample resources for startups.
  • Rich support from government and local initiatives.
  • A welcoming environment for foreigners and a strong expat network.

Cons:

  • Economic fluctuations might impact funding availability.
  • Competition for resources can be intense in rapidly growing sectors.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Growing focus on empowering female entrepreneurs with dedicated programs, networking events, and funding opportunities aimed at women-led ventures.

Brisbane is carving out its niche as a startup haven with its unique blend of support, quality of life, and dynamic community. It’s an exciting time to establish a business in this thriving city! 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Brisbane 🌟

Brisbane is emerging as a distinguished contender in the global startup landscape. Let’s dissect its suitability for female entrepreneurs by evaluating ten key factors that shape the entrepreneurial environment.


1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 8/10
    • With a subtropical climate, Brisbane boasts a high number of sunny days and warm winters. The delightful weather makes it ideal for year-round networking and outdoor events, setting a positive tone for entrepreneurs.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 7/10
    • Situated near beautiful beaches and the Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane offers excellent access to outdoor recreational activities. While a bit of travel is required for beach access, the proximity enhances the quality of life for residents.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 8/10
    • Australia places a strong emphasis on gender equality and women’s rights. Brisbane showcases various initiatives supporting women in entrepreneurship, creating an inclusive space for female leaders to thrive.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 7/10
    • The welcoming nature of locals fosters a friendly environment for foreign entrepreneurs. However, the competitive landscape can present challenges in building connections initially.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 10/10
    • English is the dominant language in both business and social settings, making it particularly accessible for international entrepreneurs, including women looking to start or scale their ventures.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 7/10
    • Brisbane’s culinary scene is diverse, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce. While onions are a common ingredient, there’s a noticeable focus on health-conscious dining and a growing local wine production, enhancing its appeal.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Brisbane’s vibrant dating scene, combined with an active lifestyle, offers opportunities for personal connections. However, the pressures of work-life balance may impact family planning for some.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 7/10
    • Access to healthcare is fairly robust, with appointment scheduling generally manageable. Costs can vary, but overall, the quality of medical services is commendable, making it easier for entrepreneurs to stay healthy.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 6/10
    • While public transport options are decent, Brisbane’s reliance on cars can limit accessibility. However, the availability of rideshare options and the presence of an international airport still facilitate travel for business endeavors.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 8/10
    • Brisbane’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is vibrant, encouraging experimentation and learning from failure. The community actively promotes resilience, making it a fertile ground for innovative ideas.

MeanCEO Index Score: 72/100 🚀

Brisbane is carving out a niche as an encouraging destination for female entrepreneurs! With a supportive community, quality of life, and various resources at their disposal, women looking to launch or grow their businesses can find promising opportunities. While some challenges exist, Melbourne’s growing startup scene presents an inviting backdrop for collaboration and success.

Happy entrepreneurship! 🚀