Join the Spark Festival team as we meet key accelerator programs in NSW, explore what they offer and help you decide which program is best for you. In just one hour, we'll cover some key accelerator programs in NSW and help you decide which would be best for you. Join us on your lunch break, and bring your questions for our guest speakers.

What is an accelerator?

Accelerator programs are a critical part of the startup ecosystem. Normally run over several weeks or months, these programs accept startups at different stages, and guide them through a curated series of content, learning, networking and even pitching experiences. These programs provide much needed support to startups, founders and their teams who would otherwise spend lots of time finding these resources themselves, without help. As per the name, an "accelerator" is designed to fast-forward your progress. Some are specific to certain industries and verticals, some are open to many. Some programs offer funding options as part of entry, others connect you to funding once you have completed the accelerator.

You’ll love this if you:

Are an early-stage founder or team ready to build
Are looking for ways to supercharge the development of your venture or idea
Would benefit from access to mentors, investment and resources

We will hear from:

i2N Accelerator: designed to provide a guided experience to quickly and cost-effectively validate your business idea or solution and get you investment ready
Techstars: the world's most active pre-seed investor
Remarkable: one of the world’s first disability tech accelerators
WSU Launchpad: for startups in Western Sydney
The Melt: invests in the future of hardware tech
Greenlight Accelerator: dedicated to supporting the development of algae biotech solutions across a broad range of industries in NSWUNSW Founders
Founder Institute: the world's most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses
UNSW Founders: empowering Australia’s next generation of entrepreneurs. From curiosity to idea and startup
CSIRO Gap Blitz: a program that aims to help founders close the gap in startup business performance and prepare them for growth through highly targeted insights, coaching and program support
CSIRO ON: is a structured accelerator program for research teams to validate and develop high potential innovative ventures
Incubate: designed to take startups from their first MVP to their first investment, customer or dollar figure
UTS Startups Growth Funding: a founder-friendly early investment program
Macquarie Incubator Educate: A targeted education program to drive investment
EnergyLab Climate Solutions Accelerator: helps the best climate tech startups deploy their solutions

Spark Festival is proudly supported by the NSW Government and has been made possible by support from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Herbert Smith Freehills, Pledge 1%, Australian Computer Society, and Stone & Chalk and continues its mission to drive engagement into and across the NSW startup ecosystem.

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