Got a new business idea or an existing business looking to scale up and expand into new markets? If so, you might be interested in Startup Central Victoria’s second accelerator program that commences in February 2022.
Aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs based in the Campaspe, Loddon, Greater Bendigo, Mount Alexander, Central Goldfields and Macedon Ranges are eligible to apply. Everything from high tech to small and innovative businesses will be considered. Expressions of interest for the 15 places close on 24 January.
Streams will cater for early stage founders and businesses, development for startups looking to create, test and validate their offering, and an advanced stream for businesses seeking to scale up nationally and internationally.
Funded by the Victorian State Government and delivered by La Trobe Innovation and Entrepreneurship with international partners, participants accepted into the program will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field over 12 sessions. They will also be connected with a mentor to assist them in their business journey. In addition to a half day bootcamp, the workshops are held online in the evening to suit participants that have business, work and family commitments. Mentoring sessions are organised at mutually agreeable times.
“If you’re starting your own business, or have one that needs a kick start, then I would recommend you look into the Start-Up Accelerator program,” said Debra from Gisborne who is among the 15 participants taking part in the first accelerator program that commenced in October. “It is well facilitated, with engaging speakers across topics you need to know about. The half day bootcamp gives a good intro, and then the weekly evening sessions fit well into regular work schedules.”
Experienced businessman Graham from Axedale is also benefitting from the accelerator program. He has patented new technology to prevent fuel theft and is using the Startup Central Victoria Accelerator Program to seek investment for a pilot project. “It has encouraged me to think more broadly about the market for my technology,” Graham said. He has also discovered unexpected benefits. “From experience I know that you can feel very lonely starting a business, but this time I don’t. I feel like I am part of a team which is so important.”
Sharlene from Dingee is exploring a new business opportunity in the region. “There are a lot of things you don’t think of when starting a business. The networking and collaboration are great, as is my mentor. Being held accountable makes you get on and do it.”
“The Accelerator Program has given me the space to think about how I can grow our graphic design business,’ said Rebecca from Castlemaine. ‘I have felt very supported and it has inspired me to become more active in the region instead of relying on our Melbourne-based clients.”
For more information and to submit an expression of interest, please visit www.startupcv.com.au/events