7 August - Calling All Founders ??
Bonjour ??
At UNSW Founders we’re dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs at every stage and skill level. Our programs are designed to identify and nurture exceptional talent, guiding you through a well-defined path of targeted initiatives. We believe in a ‘founder first’ approach, focusing on developing people, not just their ideas. Our commitment extends to fostering sustainability, social impact, economic viability, and personal resilience in every founder we support.
This fortnight, we bring you the first look at:
- Startup Muster is back and we break down the details for you!?
- Our July First Thursdays event with Mahesh Muralidhar was a hit, offering game-changing insights on scaling startups. Read the takeaways!
- The 24th Peter Farrell Cup finalists competing for $20K have just been announced. Have you got your ticket to the showdown on September 10? Let the Entrepreneurial games begin!
- We’ve also wrapped up Term 1 of our 2024 Startup Year Program, and Expressions of Interest for 2025 are open!
- Our portfolio is buzzing with achievements! We're talking groundbreaking tech, world-firsts, awards, major funding wins, and exciting job opportunities.?
- Plus, don’t miss the New Wave Program and the Terrible Ideas Hackathon—perfect for unleashing your inner creative genius. Applications closing soon!
- Don't just dive when you could perform an "Olympic-worthy reverse two-and-a-half somersault tuck" into the free entrepreneurial events and workshops from the MCIC to Liverpool, there's something for everyone!?
Go for Gold ???
LATEST & GREATEST >>
If you are the founder of a startup in Australia or a supporter of startups (educators, investors, accelerators, incubators, coworking spaces, service providers, etc.), please contribute your data to help showcase what’s happening in Australia's startup ecosystem. Your responses will be used to create a free public report, available on October 30th, 2024. With your permission, your answers may also be shared with relevant government bodies to inform policy development.
Remember to select UNSW when asked about your university affiliation and name drop UNSW Founders for any other relevant questions.
Potentially relevant questions:
Take the survey before the 26 August deadline - START NOW
When it comes to scaling startups and navigating business operations, Mahesh Muralidhar brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the table. Known for his pivotal roles at Canva and Airtasker, Mahesh is now the founder of Phase One Ventures, a venture capital firm supporting early-stage startups. At our July First Thursdays, Mahesh shared invaluable insights on scaling businesses, fostering innovation, and navigating challenges. We've unpacked his extensive experience and practical advice in our latest article, offering essential lessons for any aspiring entrepreneur. Dive in and unlock your business potential!
Following a vibrant pitch fest, the top finalists for the 24th Peter Farrell Cup (PFC) have been decided. UNSW’s longest-running student-led, team-based competitive ideas program is designed to fast-track the next generation of entrepreneurs.
In the biggest PFC to date, 113 applications were received with a record-breaking 97 student teams selected. Teams participated in a series of experiential workshops to build the skills and mindset necessary to test, integrate, pitch, and potentially launch a real business.
The top 10 have now been chosen to compete for a share of $20,000 at the Finals Night on September 10. Find out who they are in this article and RSVP to Finals Night here.
Plus, don't forget we pledged to up the prize pool to $25,000 if we hit 5k followers on Instagram this month ??
Last Friday, we celebrated the culmination of Term 1 of our 2024 Startup Year Program - the UNSW Graduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship. As the first university to launch under the Federal Government's new Startup Year initiative, we're proud to offer hands-on, immersive entrepreneurial experiences, empowering our community to turn their ideas into reality.
Find out more about Startup Year and submit your EOI for Startup Year 2025. Plus, follow Program Manager Rita Wu on LinkedIn to be the first to see program milestones, including her takeaways from the cohort's excursion to IBM’s Sydney Office.
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PORTFOLIO NEWS >>
Last week, HEO held their third T-Minus product event where they unveiled a new software platform and hardware, highlighted key use cases, and showcased thier non-Earth imaging improvements. Relive the Livestream of the event here... or read HEO's top highlights here...
InnerSteps has won 4 out of 5 nominated awards at the iAwards, Australia's longest-running and most prestigious tech innovation awards, including Best Non-For-Profit/Community Solution and Best Student & Education Solution. Read more here... Join the movement: Download InnerSteps on iOS or Android today to enjoy full access to all features completely FREE for 30 days!
Ocean Intelligence has been awarded a seed grant from Australia's Economic Accelerator to develop new fuel-efficiency routing software for the shipping industry. They are one of 36 projects receiving a combined $11M to commercialise research that addresses the National Reconstruction Fund priorities. This funding will accelerate our ambition to transform the way ships cross the ocean. Read more here.
NewEra Bio, part of Cicada's Tech 23 this week, is advancing sustainable dye production using synthetic biology. Their innovative approach addresses the environmental impact of fossil fuel dyes in fabric production, aiming to reduce water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Meet the Tech23 here...
Cauldron Ferm is hiring! This is a cracking opportunity to join the Cauldron team as the Aussie-based Capital Projects Director. View the position description and apply here.
Assurance Lab is a finalist for 'Scaleup of the Year' at the Startup Daily Best In Tech Awards 2024! ?? Cheer them on here...
APPLICATIONS OPEN >>
Are you wondering if the New Wave Program is Right For You?
1. Watch the highlight reel from our latest cohort - Watch Now!
2. Join our information session to find out how this 4-week online program, sponsored by Westpac, can help you develop the confidence and skills needed to create a successful startup.?
During New Wave you'll learn proven methods to test, build, and launch a business from the ground up, gain access to quality mentors and professional networks, and join a supportive community of like-minded women. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to pitch your idea for a chance to win over $15k in cash prizes. The next program runs from 16 Sep – 11 Oct 2024.
***We have 20 spaces reserved for Liverpool residents, who do not need to be UNSW affiliated. For more information, reach out to our LIP Program Manager, Shuoyan Zhu. Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity—attend the online info session to learn more!
Got a Terribly Brilliant Idea? Unleash it at the Terrible Ideas Hackathon! ???????
Join us for 46 hours of glorious, unadulterated idea-slinging at the MCIC. We're talking robot tattoo artists, vegemite fudge, a merciful mirror, or anything else that comes to mind. Think of it as a celebration of glorious failure, where your imagination (or lack thereof ??) is the only limit. No abilities required. Bring your brilliant (terrible) brain, laptops, art supplies, tools—whatever madness your project requires! Sign up to unleash your inner creative genius and turn those terrible ideas into something spectacularly awful! ?????
Plus, Yochi is sweetening the deal with vouchers for our six winning teams. Is there a less terrible way to celebrate your yochi-evements than with some delicious froyo? ???
UPCOMING EVENTS >>
Wednesday, 14 August 12pm - 1pm Online
Featuring Chris Baxter, a Managing Director Patent & Trade Mark Attorney at Baxter IP, and Chloe Cort, an experienced trade mark attorney and UK lawyer, will simplify the complexities of IP and its crucial role for startups. The session includes a 20-minute open Q&A to address your specific questions. Sign up below so you don't miss out on these invaluable insights for free!
Tuesday, 20 August, 4.30 - 6.00pm, at the MCIC
Our monthly Research Pathways Meetup is approaching. This time, we will hear from researchers who are going through the 10x Accelerators, sharing their insights, learnings, and success stories. It’s a great opportunity to foster collaborative connections.
This event is specifically designed for the UNSW researcher and academic community. We help you connect with like-minded individuals and answer all your entrepreneurial-related questions.
领英推荐
Friday, 30 August ?from 5.30pm - 9pm at the MCIC
Mark your calendars for an epic networking event designed to foster collaboration and investment opportunities within the health tech ecosystem. In partnership with the Australian Medical Angels and The George Institute for Global Health, this event will offer investors the chance to discover the innovative health and medical solutions of tomorrow. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with dynamic and passionate health technology startups and make a lasting impact on the future of healthcare.
Thursday, 5 September from 4pm - 6pm at the MCIC
Our guest speaker for the September First Thursdays is Michael Withford, a visionary in micro-photonics and a leader in optical fiber innovation. As the co-founder of Modular Photonics, Michael has been instrumental in creating components that supercharge high-speed internet, securing him national and international recognition. He has contributed to great advancements with several patents and over 160 journal papers. His expertise in lodging patents can help researchers and future founders understand the importance of protecting intellectual property, providing insights into earning credibility and attracting investment, so make sure you grab your ticket.
LIVERPOOL >>?
Thursday, 8 August from 5-7pm at the Liverpool City Library
Time is running out to learn how to create your own app in the Liverpool Digital Makers Series. Join us for the final free session to receive expert guidance from a seasoned software engineer and learn app development from scratch.
No experience? No problem. This beginner-friendly program only requires your laptop and enthusiasm for digital learning. We’ll provide the food ?? so you can concentrate on the rest.
Supported by Investment NSW and Liverpool Innovation Precinct, this series is ideal for anyone keen to boost their digital skills. ??
Wednesday, 14 August from 5-7pm at Liverpool Civic Place Council Chambers
Mark your calendars for an exciting evening of innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit at the Liverpool Innovation Precinct! Join us as the brightest minds from South Western Sydney present their fresh ideas and business ventures.
This event, proudly supported by Investment NSW, Liverpool Innovation Precinct and Liverpool City Council, promises to be an inspiring display of local talent and creativity. Don’t miss this chance to network with like-minded individuals and support the future of innovation in our community.
Tuesday, 20 August 6 - 7pm Online
Master the art of setting up your company with ease! ?? Led by industry experts from Sleek, this online workshop will provide you with essential insights on choosing the right legal structure, avoiding common pitfalls, and staying compliant with regulatory deadlines. Perfect for first-time entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike, this session covers everything from starting a PTY LTD company to understanding the roles of company officers and service providers. Supported by Investment NSW and Liverpool Innovation Precinct, this online workshop via Zoom promises to equip you with the knowledge to kickstart your business journey successfully. Don’t miss out – register today and take the first step towards building your dream company!
Wednesday, 21 August from 5 - 7pm at Liverpool City Council Chambers
Get ready for an inspiring evening at Spark Sydney South West, where you can discover funding opportunities, network with like-minded individuals, and connect with experts who can help elevate your startup. In collaboration with Catalysr and Spark Festival, and proudly supported by Investment NSW, this event features a keynote by Ms. Charishma Kaliyanda MP and special guest presenters Anne-Marie Elias, Andrew Corbett-Jones, and Sabrina Zeng. Don’t miss this chance to dive into the world of funding innovation.?
UPSKILL >>
???Do you have an idea that you think could be a great side hustle??
Come enjoy a FREE coffee and a rapid coaching session with our ready & waiting UNSW Founders team. This is a drop-in session running every second Thursday of the month, but be sure to register so we can expect you! SECURE YOUR SPOT NOW
??Coach & Connect
Available for FREE to all UNSW staff, students and alumni with a bright idea for a new startup, or an already established business.
From developing an idea, building a business model, raising capital to merely exploring entrepreneurship, we’re here to help!?LEARN MORE
?? Whether it's learning to code, building a prototype, designing a new product or merely learning a new creative skill, our team at Makerspace & MCIC have something for you. We are always pulling together exciting workshops & short courses to help you learn and grow.
Add UNSW Founders to your LinkedIn Profile?
Check out our new Alumni section on our Linkedin page and update your profile's education section to join our network.
Grants for Startups & SME's >>
?? The MVP Ventures Program is designed to?support startups and innovative SME’s?through the?product lifecycle between early-stage research and mature investment opportunities. It offers?grants of?$25,000 to $50,000?in co-contribution funding to drive the commercialisation of highly innovative and new products or processes. ?
Applications for round 2 close 28 Feb 2025. Find out more.
?? The Industry Growth Program is now open, with startups and innovative small and medium businesses able to apply for expert advice on their commercialisation and growth projects. The Industry Growth Program enables eligible SMEs to receive advice from industry experts, with a particular focus on the early stages when businesses often have difficulty turning innovative ideas into profitable products, processes and services. Once you have received this advice, you may choose to apply for:?
- Grants of 50,000 to $250,000 to support early-stage commercialisation projects.
- Grants of $100,000 to $5 million for commercialisation and growth projects.
Your tax-deductible donation supports Australia's?
next generation of entrepreneurs