Lou Conway

Lou Conway is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in business, education, and community development. She is the Director of UNE SMART Region Incubator - a community of founders that supports startups and entrepreneurs in the New England North West region of NSW. Lou is an alumna of The University of Queensland and the University of New England(AU), where she completed her Bachelor's in Occupational Therapy, Master's in Business Administration (MBA) and Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Regional Development Governance.

Lou has held various key positions in the public and private sectors, including the NSW Circular Economy Taskforce, IdeaSpies, Regional Australia Bank, University of New England(AU), Department of Family and Community Services (NSW), NSW Health, Royal Hobart Hospital, and the Australian Government Department of Human Services. She has immense experience in Partnerships and Business Development, People Development, Higher Education, and Human Services.

Lou's passion lies in developing and promoting sustainable, manageable, and accessible technologies that enhance the way we live meaningful and productive lives. She believes in the power of collaborations that will launch tech transfer and out-of-the-box solutions to challenges. With her academic rigour and entrepreneurial passion, Lou ensures the UNE SMART Region Incubator is a hub for researchers and founders focused on making a difference through developing knowledge to grow commercial and community opportunities.