Overview
Connecting Dots is a Darwin based tech and cyber consulting agency. They provide innovative cyber security services through its proprietary Apply Cyber platform and customised IT consulting services. The business recognises the significant potential of enhancing the cyber security landscape in the Southeast Asian region.
In 2023 Connecting Dots worked closely with NT TradeStart advisor, Mr Iain Forrest to explore these opportunities to expand into the Southeast Asian market.
TradeStart is a joint initiative between the Australian and NT Governments. The TradeStart network provides advice and support to local businesses wanting to expand into international markets.
Overview
Connecting Dots is a Darwin based tech and cyber consulting agency. They provide innovative cyber security services through its proprietary Apply Cyber platform and customised IT consulting services. The business recognises the significant potential of enhancing the cyber security landscape in the Southeast Asian region.
In 2023 Connecting Dots worked closely with NT TradeStart advisor, Mr Iain Forrest to explore these opportunities to expand into the Southeast Asian market.
TradeStart is a joint initiative between the Australian and NT Governments. The TradeStart network provides advice and support to local businesses wanting to expand into international markets.
What was the challenge
After identifying the opportunity in Southeast Asia, Connecting Dots took a strategic approach with expanding their business internationally. This was to ensure the business had the best chance of success within the quickest time frame.
How the challenge was addressed
Connecting Dots accessed two Government supported initiatives to accelerate their international expansion, this includes:
NT TradeStart advisor, Mr Forrest, worked with the Managing Director of Connecting Dots in late 2023 to unlock opportunities in Indonesia.
TradeStart also facilitated introductions with the Austrade team in Jakarta and Singapore. These introductions led to prospective client meetings and commercial partnerships for Connecting Dots.
With the support of TradeStart, Connecting Dots to attended a number of international business trade shows. These included the Vietnam and Jakarta Southeast Asia Business Exchange (SEABX), the Timor-Leste – Australia Economic Forum and the Singapore SEABX.
Mr Forrest also provided support and information to Connecting Dots about NT Government’s Global Trade Scheme. The Global Trade Scheme is a grant program that helps Territory businesses setup or expand their exporting capabilities.
GTS funding enabled Connecting Dots to market itself in Indonesia and meet with key customers and stakeholders.
Outcome
Connecting Dots has gained significant traction in Indonesia with the company signing multiple MOUs with key Indonesian business partners.
As a result of Connecting Dots expansion into SoutheastAsia, the company won the Advanced Technology category at the 2024 Northern Territory Export Awards.
Opportunity
NT businesses with ambitions to expand internationally can access government support programs and funding.
The TradeStart is a joint Austrade and NT Government initiative that assists export-ready businesses to achieve long term success in international markets by leveraging local, national and international government networks.
The Global Trade Scheme is a NT Government funded program that assist businesses to become export ready. Funding is also available to support export-ready businesses to grow their existing markets and enter new markets.
TradeStart
The TradeStart network is an extension to Austrade’s own offices. It is delivered in partnership with state, territory and local governments. The TradeStart partnership includes industry associations and chambers of commerce.