Mentoring program set to help start-ups

VIRTUALLY all new products and services start with an idea, but the concept on its own is usually not enough.

For those who have such an idea, Startup Central Victoria may be able to help.

Expressions of interest are now open for the second intake of participants in the organisation’s free Pre-Accelerator Program, which is scheduled to start late next month.

Over a period of 12 weeks, participants will receive advice and guidance in testing and developing their idea through a series of master classes, both in person and online, and other activities.

Anyone aged 18 or older with a business start-up idea is eligible to be involved, and there is no minimum level of experience required.

SCV is particularly encouraging teams of three or more to take part, with the lead applicant to be living or working in central Victoria.

“If you’ve got a great business start-up idea – in particular think tech and global markets in any sector – then there is no better time to scope it out and test if it is viable in a safe, supportive and confidential environment,” a spokesperson said.

“You will be connected with like-minded entrepeneurs, experienced business mentors and professional services in the region.”

Topics to be covered during the program will include developing an entrepreneurial mindset, customer discovery, commercial law, branding and marketing, investors and funding, design, financial structure, and perfecting a pitch.

Participants will be required to actively work on their idea in between classes, and a minimum of one team member will be required to be present at each session.

They will also be able to meet with a business mentor for up to six hours during the program.

Expressions of interest can be submitted at startupcv.com.au/events/accelerator-program and are open until 10 June.

The program will begin with a full day of activities in Bendigo on June 23. Master classes will run from 7pm to 8.30pm each Tuesday from June 25 to August 20, with some to be conducted online.

A second day-long activities event will be held on August 25, with a showcase event planned for September 6.