Step into the world of innovation and opportunity at the "Startup Fusion": Business Advisory Speed Dating event.

This exciting gathering brings an array of seasoned professionals under one roof, including the Startup Shakeup Alumni, Startups, Regional Skills Advisors and others involved in the innovation landscape, and a host of thriving small businesses .

The concept is simple yet powerful – participants get 10 minutes of one-on-one time talking with advisors. Whether it's seeking expert guidance, validating ideas, or refining strategies, attendees have the unique chance to have their burning business questions answered on the spot. At the event we will also have guests from the wider innovation ecosystem, sparking discussions about next steps over nibbles.

Startup Fusion is more than just an event; it's a catalyst for growth for the startup ecosystem across the North east of Victoria.

The Advisors joining us:

Bronwen O’Shea – Content, Podcast & Media training, Brand & Storytelling. Founder of StoryUp, Bronwen is a former ABC journalist and can help you develop the strong voice your brand needs.

Reece Miller – Code free app development, social impact startups, consumer behaviour. Reece is the founder of SpendAble, a purpose driven FinTech on a mission to give NDIS participant more control over their money in a safe, secure and supported way. He previously founded “Support Your Way” and has developed 7 apps from scratch.

Karen Prebble – Marketing, strategy and Branding. With an extensive work history in various marketing and innovation roles for major FMCG companies such as Nestle, Colgate, Mars, Unilever and Brown Brothers Brand, Karen is a Marketing Strategist and is currently the Marketing Manager for the Australian owned ICM Agri-business: ‘Riverina Dairy’,  based in Albury.

Michael Hoare - Residential, Secured Commercial and Business Cash flow lending, Equipment/Consumer Financing and Self-Managed Superannuation loans. With over thirty years experience in the finance industry, covering most aspects of finance from start-ups through to Private Client Offices and Commercial Enterprises, Michael has experience and contacts that can help you grow towards your financial goals.

Birgit Schönafinger - Communications and Social Impact Measurement. Founder of Fishbowl PR, Birgit has been helping not-for-profit, large organisation and government agency clients produce measurable results since 2010. She helps you to better understand the needs of individuals or groups with whom you do business by providing evidence-based strategic communications advice.

Ashley Boyd - Financial Processes, Tax & Compliance. Founder of ASB Consulting & Tax. Having worked with small/medium businesses at all stages of the business cycle over the last 14 years, Ashley works with businesses to build strong financial processes to ensure compliance needs are met and progress towards goals is being made.

Melissa Antony - Business coaching, Marketing, Tourism, Hospitality & project management. Having owned and worked in businesses in the past Melissa understand the hustle and grind of both and will help you get the most out of your time and effort. Melissa can steer you in the right direction for implementing systems to make your business more efficient & resilient and has a simple & relaxed approach to getting things done whilst keeping things practical for businesses.

We will also have Sam Almaliki, founder of the Regional Angel investor Network giving a short presentation on what Angel Investors are looking for when investing.

We look forward to seeing you there!

This is event is supported by our Partners, LaunchVic and The Rural City of Wangaratta.