New Grants to Establish University Pre-accelerators

Last Updated: Wednesday 26 February

LaunchVic, Victoria’s startup agency, has opened a new grant round to support the establishment of pre-accelerator programs at Victorian universities, aiming to drive greater startup creation across the state.

Currently, 115,000 of Victoria’s 420,000 university students lack access to an on-campus pre-accelerator program – presenting a significant opportunity to expand startup support and unlock untapped potential.

With up to $400,000 in funding available, requiring a 1:1 matched contribution, the initiative will support the establishment of new pre-accelerators and provide university students and research teams with the resources to launch high-potential startups.

LaunchVic CEO Dr. Kate Cornick said student entrepreneurs from Victorian universities have already created globally successful startups, including Airwallex, Acusensus, Mindset Health, and Tixel, but there is potential to do more.

“Pre-accelerators are an effective catalyst for startup creation. They provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the mentorship, guidance, and industry connections needed to turn their technology-driven ideas into successful businesses,” Dr.Cornick said.

Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson said these grants will make a big difference for universities and startups.

“Victoria is home to some of the best universities in the world, and this new funding will support our talented students to turn great ideas into new startups, growing our economy and creating jobs.”

Eligible applicants must be Victorian universities with a demonstrated track record in supporting early-stage technology startups or a clear plan to engage experienced personnel or collaborate with established program delivery partners.

To date, LaunchVic has funded 24 pre-accelerator programs, supporting approximately 1,100 aspiring startup founders.

For more information, visit launchvic.org/grants.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Kate Gittings

GM, Communications & Marketing

kate.gittings@launchvic.org