Tech startup program launched to accelerate region

Former Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, the Hon Karen Andrews MP (now Minister for Home Affairs) and Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP meeting the startups

Western Sydney University’s Launch Pad Technology Business Incubator has launched its ‘SydWest Global Connections Tech Start-up’ accelerator program.

The program received a $250,000 grant through the Australian Government Entrepreneurs’ Programme to drive the development of technology-based start-up companies in Western Sydney.

At a recent event, twenty-one participating startups met former Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, the Hon Karen Andrews MP (now Minister for Home Affairs) and Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP, to pitch their innovative business solutions.

Megna Murali, Founder and CEO of Arche Analytics and program participant, said the initiative is perfect for new and emerging startups.

“The program’s support, mentorship and resources are helping me to turn my idea into a viable and scalable business,” said Ms Murali.

“I am learning new skills such as pitching, interviewing customers and prototyping as well as other essential knowledge such as accessing funding and building a team.”

“This program gives me the confidence that I have the resources and support I need through my startup journey.”

Megna Murali, Founder and CEO of Arche Analytics and program participant

Don Wright, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Western Sydney University’s Launch Pad, said the launch of the program affirms the University’s commitment to supporting high-growth technology-based businesses.

“This innovative program will nurture a range of tech startups in the region, who through their progressive business solutions, are contributing to key growth areas of health, education, agri-business and advanced manufacturing,” said Mr Wright.

“With a focus on supporting multicultural founders and the post-pandemic economic recovery in Western Sydney, the program will offer six months of intensive training, mentorship and development.”

“Participants will have the opportunity to scale-up their solutions and will benefit from access to Launch Pad’s extensive skill base, its global network, and advanced facilities located in Kingswood.”

The SydWest Global Connections Tech Start-up accelerator program will support technology start-ups working in high-growth industry sectors or using technologies where there is potential to drive international market opportunities, particularly within the US and Asia Pacific region.

Delivered through Western Sydney University’s highly successful Launch Pad Technology Business Incubator, the accelerator will provide a range of support activities designed to help start-ups establish quickly, hone their value proposition, rapidly develop technology, access markets and scale effectively.

Don Wright, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Western Sydney University’s Launch Pad; former Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, the Hon Karen Andrews MP (now Minister for Home Affairs); Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP ; and Western Sydney University Assistant Vice-Chancellor and Director, Centre for Western Sydney, Dr Andy Marks

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