Investment NSW says the four pre-accelerator programs it is launching are designed to support founders from diverse backgrounds and increase the number of social impact start-ups.
The Social Impact Pre-Accelerator Program will be delivered by Startmate, I2N (University of Newcastle), iAccelerate (University of Wollongong) and UNSW Founders (University of NSW).
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said the programs will focus on concepts and individuals that want to drive positive change and deliver social impact.
“Start-ups can hold the key to solving some of society’s biggest problems and we want to grow the capabilities of entrepreneurs who want to make a difference for the community,” Chanthivong said.
Around 60 participants will take part in the pre-accelerators, running across Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong, where individuals who have a start-up concept but are unsure how to progress, will be provided with bespoke coaching and mentoring to further develop their ideas.
“Pre-accelerators are designed for people at the beginning of the start-up journey, where they can further develop their concepts and learn more about the markets in which they operate. On completion of the pre-accelerator, participants may then join an accelerator and receive further training and mentoring to launch their own venture.
“We also want to build a more diverse innovation ecosystem, which is why these pre-accelerators include opportunities for female founders to take part, along with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds and people with a disability,” Chanthivong said.
The pre-accelerator providers will manage the application process for participants, with the programs to be delivered over the coming months and into next year.
Find out more about the four pre-accelerator programs and how to apply.
