Got a great business idea but don’t know how to further explore it? Or maybe you are already in business and have an idea for a new product or service but need to commit some time to develop it?
Expressions of interest are now open for Startup Central Victoria’s FREE pre-accelerator program!
Over a ten-week period participants have the opportunity to test out and develop their idea in a confidential and supportive environment with the support of professionals and mentors. Two boot camps are held in Bendigo and weekly masterclasses are conducted online making it easy to participate no matter where you live in the region.
Claire Green from Woodend says that she gained valuable insights from last year’s program. “A key feature of the program was the one-to-one mentoring, which for me was a game-changer. It gave me clarity about the very real challenges of building and growing a business, as well as insights to refine my ideas.”
2024 participants had similar experiences. “The masterclasses gave us the tools to bring our idea to life,” said Matt Grant. “Through the program we verified that we have an idea that will bring value to people,” said Amy Cockroft.
The Ligantic co-founders used the 2023 pre-accelerator to fine-tune their tech startup which was successfully launched at the conclusion. “We had really robust discussions to align the three of us with how we wanted to start our business,” said Stef Cola.
Over the past five years, 102 startup teams from across the Loddon Campaspe region with a broad range of business ideas have participated in the program. In feedback, all participants have reported a significant increase in their knowledge and have been grateful for the opportunity.
Applications are now open for this year’s pre-accelerator program that commences on Sunday 24 May 2026 followed by online masterclasses held each Tuesday evening between 7.00pm and 8.30pm. A final bootcamp will be held on Sunday 26 July and a Regional Showcase on the evening of Friday 31 July.
EOI’s close 17 May.
Call Kerry Anderson on 0418 553 719 if you require further information.