Accelerators
Accelerators are cohort-based programs. Rolling investment includes always-open investor funding and founder programs.
La Trobe LaunchPad
La Trobe LaunchPad is a 12-week pre-accelerator for aspiring founders building technology-led startups. Delivered by La Trobe University and Startmate with support from LaunchVic, the program helps founders validate ideas, conduct customer discovery, build MVPs, develop business models and prepare investor pitches. Participants join one of two streams based on startup maturity and come together as a single cohort for accountability, mentoring and pitch preparation. The program is delivered in a hybrid format across Victoria and includes the opportunity to compete for up to $5,000 in prizes.
Good fit: Idea-stage founders who need structure, customer validation and startup fundamentals.
Google DeepMind Accelerator
Google DeepMind Accelerator: AI for the Planet is a three-month accelerator for APAC-based startups, research teams and non-profits using AI to address environmental challenges. The program provides access to the Google AI stack, including frontier AI models, technical mentorship from Google experts, tailored support and connections through the Google Accelerator Alumni network. The program begins with an in-person bootcamp, continues with virtual support, and concludes with an in-person Demo Day for industry partners, investors and stakeholders.
Good fit: MVP-stage AI founders building climate, agriculture or sustainability solutions.
Startmate Launch Club
Launch Club is an 8-week pre-accelerator program from Startmate designed for early-stage founders who want to validate an idea, build momentum, and get real feedback on their startup journey. It gives you structure, community support, and practical accountability to help you move beyond just thinking about your idea — pushing you toward building a real MVP, talking with customers, and refining your story. Unlike long courses or on-demand content, Launch Club combines weekly live sessions, small group check-ins, mentor access, investor exposure moments like Investor Roulette, and a cohort culture that keeps you focused and progressing. It’s built to be compatible with part-time life (work/studies) while still creating real founder momentum.
Good fit: Aspiring founders in Australia/New Zealand with an idea or early MVP wanting structured validation and community support.
Hub71+ Life Sciences
Hub71+ Life Sciences is a 12-month specialist ecosystem in Abu Dhabi, UAE for startups in biotechnology, MedTech, and digital health. The programme combines cash and in-kind incentives and access to Abu Dhabi’s life sciences ecosystem, including regulators, corporates, research partners, and investors to support innovation, market entry and growth. Founders are expected to engage with the local ecosystem and build operations from Abu Dhabi as part of the programme
Good fit: Early life sciences founders with a product concept in biotech, MedTech or digital health seeking access to a specialized ecosystem.
77 Challenges
The 77 Challenge is a 12-week program by 77 Partners designed to help early-stage founders prepare and raise their early-stage funding round. The program provides fundraising strategy support, weekly 1:1 sessions with the 77 Partners team, investor introductions, workshops and access to experienced operators and investors. Ventures do not pay fees or give equity to participate, and at least one company from each cohort is offered an investment of at least A$100,000 from 77 Partners. The program is remote and focused on Australian frontier technology founders.
Good fit: Pre-seed founders preparing to raise capital and needing investor feedback.
Apex|Growth Accelerator
The Cardano Growth Accelerator is a 10-week hybrid accelerator delivered by Draper University for startups building on the Cardano ecosystem. The program helps founders refine their product, validate go-to-market strategy, prepare for fundraising and scale their business through mentorship, workshops and investor access. Participants receive guidance from Draper University's network of entrepreneurs and investors, with the program culminating in a Demo Day. The accelerator is designed for startups that already have a product and are ready to grow, rather than founders at the idea stage
Good fit: Cardano-native startups preparing to scale or raise capital.