Cicada Innovations has announced the 23 standout Australian deep tech startups selected for Tech23 2026, reflecting a 57% increase in competition from last year and showcasing breakthroughs across sectors such as health, energy, and sustainability.
- Record 236 deep tech startup applications for Tech23 2026
- Startups focus on physical AI, sustainability, health, and advanced manufacturing
- Alumni have raised over $280 million since 2023
What happened
Cicada Innovations has revealed the 23 deep tech startups participating in Tech23 2026, an annual event that highlights Australia’s leading innovators in critical technological areas. These startups were chosen from a record-breaking pool of 236 applicants, representing a significant 57% increase in interest compared to the previous year. The event, to be held in Sydney in September, presents companies working on commercial-ready innovations including physical AI, health tech, sustainability, energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
The chosen startups bring diverse technological advancements such as cost-effective wastewater treatment using algae, non-invasive medical diagnostics, autonomous ocean infrastructure for environmental resilience, and breakthroughs in cooling systems that reduce energy consumption. This year’s cohort demonstrates a wide range of applications targeting both commercial viability and sovereign capability, underpinning Australia’s ambition to foster deep tech ecosystems.
Why it matters
Tech23 serves as a critical platform for Australia’s emerging deep tech ecosystem, helping to propel innovative startups onto national and global stages. The program has proven successful in accelerating growth and funding, with alumni companies raising a combined total exceeding $280 million since 2023. Beyond capital, the event facilitates partnerships with industry leaders and government projects, providing startups with pathways to commercial and operational scalability.
The technologies presented have the potential to catalyze new industries, strengthen supply chains, and reduce Australia’s reliance on international suppliers, particularly in sectors deemed strategically important. By bolstering local innovation in science and engineering, these startups contribute not only to economic growth but also to sustainable solutions for complex challenges such as environmental conservation, healthcare accessibility, and infrastructure resilience.
What to watch next
The upcoming Tech23 event on September 9 will showcase live presentations and demonstrations from the 23 selected startups, providing insight into the future directions of Australian deep tech. Observers should watch how these companies advance discussions on sovereign technology capacity, especially in areas like AI hardware, space technology, environmental sustainability, and medical innovation. Particular attention may fall on high-impact technologies such as autonomous ocean infrastructure, AI-powered edge computing, and advanced biotechnology.
Post-event, the progress of these startups will be key indicators for the sector’s health and investment climate. Tracking their ability to secure further funding, enter partnerships, and achieve commercial milestones will demonstrate the efficacy of initiatives like Tech23 in nurturing homegrown technological breakthroughs. The evolving startup ecosystem also signals broader shifts toward sustainability and technological independence within Australia.