The Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE) Program, a collaborative effort led by UNSW Sydney and the University of Newcastle in Australia, reached a significant milestone in its mission to accelerate clean energy and circular economy technologies. The program, funded by the Australian Government, recently marked the halfway point of its four-year initiative with the inauguration of two modern facilities at the University of Newcastle's Callaghan Campus. The TRaCE Showcase, launched by Ms Sharon Claydon MP, highlighted the program's commitment to transforming research outcomes into tangible solutions that drive economic growth and environmental sustainability. The event brought together key stakeholders to explore emerging partnerships, education pathways, and technology development initiatives within the clean energy and circular economy sectors. Professor Emmanuel Mastio, Executive Director of TRaCE, emphasized the program's role in supporting start-ups, SMEs, and industry-led research collaborations. The event also showcased innovative projects like AMMONIAC, Superyard, DeCarice, and Siltrax, each contributing to the advancement of green technologies and circular economy solutions. The TRaCE Program aims to establish a national model for integrated innovation, focusing on research commercialization and sovereign manufacturing in the new energy economy. By promoting collaborations between researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders, TRaCE is driving the transition towards a more sustainable and green economy. Moving forward, TRaCE plans to embed its programs and partnerships within the core infrastructure of both universities, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability. The program's ultimate goal is to accelerate the commercialization of Australian innovation, particularly in the clean energy sector, while fostering stronger research-industry collaboration across the country.