Startmate Accelerator

Are you ready to take your startup to the next level?

The Startmate Accelerator multiplies your growth. In 3 months you'll move faster than you ever thought possible, build a better product with more users, and get the best platform in ANZ to raise capital.

📆

Program Dates: JUL 14–OCT 10 2025 (12 WEEKS)

Program Dates:
JUL 14–OCT 10 2025 (12 WEEKS)

✏

Applications Close: 11:59PM NOV 10

Applications Close:
11:59PM NOV 10

W22

Raised $1.3M Pre-Seed to roll out insurance-at-checkout vision.

SM12

Raises $72 million Series B to help property managers, lenders and investors make better management decisions.

NZ20

Raises Series A to take its electric boat motors global.

SYD17

Raised $170M Series B to accelerate the manufacture and distribution of its energy efficient, long-range WiFi chips.

S21

Raised $24M Series A to end the world's reliance on petroleum-based plastic packaging.

SM12

Raised $25M Series B to provide comprehensive cyber security risk assessments.

MEL19

Raised $1.28M Seed to make the fashion industry more sustainable with their unique circular wardrobe.

SM13

Raises $30M in Series D to expand its bug bounty platform.

S21

Raises $8M Seed to replace plastics with seaweed.

MEL18

Raises $17.8M Series A helps people with chronic conditions learn to manage their health.

📆

Applications close 11:59PM NOV 10 for the Summer'24 cohort

Apply now

Startmate has invested in 220+ companies that are worth $2 billion combined.

What is the
‍Startmate Accelerator?

Put simply, we help you grow your early stage company much, much faster.  You’ll spend 12 weeks laser-focused on your customer, building the best product and setting the foundations you need for exponential growth.

🚀

Founders/peers who will become some of the most important people in your founding journey.

🧠

Mentors who can unlock you, connect you, define your focus and keep you on track.

💾

Clear and simple investment terms - $120k, no hooks or surprises - and a bulletproof path to raising.

đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘§â€đŸ‘Š

Access to thousands of pre-vetted, talented operators hungry to join a high-growth startup

50%

Companies raise capital post-accelerator program.

$1.8m AUD

The median round size of companies that raised equity rounds post-accelerator in the past 2 years.

9.2/10 program rating
from 250+ alumni reviews.

Sebastian Camus

Bachelor of Science @ USYD

Sebastian Camus

Bachelor of Science @ USYD

"I loved the community - not just the passionate fellows but all the inspiring mentors, it’s pretty crazy valuable."

Aleksy Ginovic

Bachelor of Business & Creative Intelligence and Innovation @ UTS

Aleksy Ginovic

Bachelor of Business & Creative Intelligence and Innovation @ UTS

"The best Australian program to meet liked minded individuals that have a passion from startups whilst in university!"

Alexandra De Bonis

Co-founder @ Workyard

Alexandra De Bonis

Co-founder @ Workyard

“The biggest lesson was being really focused on specific metrics and being obsessed with customers.”

Andy Miller

Co-founder and CEO @ Heaps Normal

Andy Miller

Co-founder and CEO @ Heaps Normal

“The impact of Startmate was that we wouldn’t have achieved any of this without going through the Accelerator. The Accelerator stretched expectations of what was possible of ourselves as founders and our business in a short period of time. It helped us grow momentum by practising good habits as founders and put us in front of mentors who had the belief and means to help us scale our business.”

Anvil Serg Bañez

Founder & CEO @ Dennisson Technologies

Anvil Serg Bañez

Founder & CEO @ Dennisson Technologies

“Our Startmate mentor squad absolutely accelerated us. It gave us the right backing to get us through the 12 weeks and beyond that.”

Anwesha Pati

Industry Outreach Representative @ Trace

Anwesha Pati

Industry Outreach Representative @ Trace

"The direct exposure to incredible industry professionals that are so generous and willing to share their learnings was so incredibly valuable. So grateful for the incredible community I am now a part of."

Ashby Field

Business Development Officer @ Department for Industry, Innovation and Science

Ashby Field

Business Development Officer @ Department for Industry, Innovation and Science

"This program is an essential prologue for anyone considering taking the leap into the growing ecosystem of Australian climate technology companies working towards sustainability and climate impact. Startmate's reach, network, and delivery are unrivalled, and I would recommend the program for specialists, generalists, and anyone determined to make a positive change."

Bailey Thomas

Relationships Manager @ One Girl

Bailey Thomas

Relationships Manager @ One Girl

"This fellowship was eye opening to the opportunities around us where we can make an impact. In particular it has motivated me to join the power-force Climate Tech community who are creating positive solutions to the climate problem!"

Beth Fitzpatrick

Head of Operations @ Emmi

Beth Fitzpatrick

Head of Operations @ Emmi

"The best thing about Ladymates Leadership is the instant connection to a support network of women, all navigating similar aspects of work and career. It's the brains trust we've all been missing! And such an uplifting part of my week."

Billy Jeremijenko

Co-founder & CEO @ Aquila

Billy Jeremijenko

Co-founder & CEO @ Aquila

“When we applied to Startmate we didn't have much more than an idea, if you're in a similar position, go for it anyways. You can get into Startmate regardless of where you are in your journey. I think what really helped us was being very clear about our ambition and where we wanted to take our technology and showing it was possible on a very small scale.”

Britt Rinker

Vice-President of Growth @ Marketplacer

Britt Rinker

Vice-President of Growth @ Marketplacer

"I was really impressed with the overall value of this fellowship. Each week was jam packed with content and our speakers/advisors were so generous with their time. Jules and the Startmate team also did a standout job coordinating all of the moving parts. I would definitely recommend this fellowship to anyone wanting to enter the Climate Tech space but not sure where to start."

Cara Davies

Co-founder @ Steppen

Cara Davies

Co-founder @ Steppen

“We had (and still have) lots to learn. Startmate creates an environment where you’re challenged and can take growth to the next level. Specifically, as first-time founders, Jake and I knew we had tonnes to learn, and were looking for mentors in product, investor relations and strategy.”

Cathleen Santoso

Head of Growth & Operations @ Athletic Ventures

Cathleen Santoso

Head of Growth & Operations @ Athletic Ventures

"Joining Ladymates Leadership gives me the chance to connect with like-minded women, share our struggles, and learn how to handle new situations. I'm using this collective wisdom to help me do better in my role and support my community, while also becoming part of a new community of like-minded women."

Catrin Jones

Founder @ oh! so vino

Catrin Jones

Founder @ oh! so vino

“Buildmate has been a place to live and breathe the benefits of the Startmate community. All founders are on their own journey, and the accountability and ideas generated are invaluable to progressing.”

Chenelle Tanglao

Trawalla Group - Investor

Chenelle Tanglao

Trawalla Group - Investor

"First Believers is like getting thrown into the deep end of the pool -- with all your friends! Bad metaphors aside: whether you're in the beginning of your investing journey or a seasoned investor, the hands-on experience and the community at First Believers is truly incomparable. You learn quickly that investing is a team sport, and First Believers is one of the best teams!"

Claire Bull

Extolla - Director of Sustainability

Claire Bull

Extolla - Director of Sustainability

“I was working from a super low base from a knowledge perspective and didn’t feel like a idiot at any point (rare!) content was super inclusive. WOW! I loved the HANDS ON EXPERIENCE. Actually getting to meet founders with real investment outcomes was an incredible way to apply knowledge immediately.”

Claire Waring

Co-Founder @ Gether

Claire Waring

Co-Founder @ Gether

"A great way to connect with other founders, swap advice and experience."

Daniel McGee

Founder @ GitConnect

Daniel McGee

Founder @ GitConnect

"I would recommend Launch Club to anyone out there who is strongly considering starting a company. The industry access, supportive community and expert advice is at a caliber that can only be found at Startmate. You will leave Launch Club with at least 5 different outcomes which push you closer to your goals, and are each worth the price of admission alone.”

Edward Barraclough

Founder @ Drone-Hand

Edward Barraclough

Founder @ Drone-Hand

“Buildmate offers founders a supportive environment with a like-minded cohort to keep you accountable and get sh*t done!”

Gabriel Tucker

Bachelor of commerce @ Monash

Gabriel Tucker

Bachelor of commerce @ Monash

"Was so fun! I loved the community aspect, it really feels like you are part of the “in” group. The tips and takeaways can be applied instantly, which is great."

Hannah Iwanov

General Manager, People @ Akaysha Energy

Hannah Iwanov

General Manager, People @ Akaysha Energy

"Ladymates has reminded and reinforced for me the value in creating time to pause and actively think and reflect before choosing a course of action. This is a lesson I'm working to integrate more and more into my everyday decision making."

Hiu Tek Wu

Bachelor of Pharmacy @ Monash

Hiu Tek Wu

Bachelor of Pharmacy @ Monash

"Startmate is the go-to-program if you're exploring the start-up space, wondering if an idea would work and feeling frustrated for your next steps.The best part of the program? People. Through the program, I got connected to aspiring peers, coaches and industry leaders in the start-up ecosytem across Australia and New Zealand. It's so good to see you're not alone in pursuing entrepreneurship, and that you've a whole supportive community surrounding you. If you don't know where to start, start from Startmate."

Isabella Roulstone

Lawyer @ Slaughter & May

Isabella Roulstone

Lawyer @ Slaughter & May

"Not only did the fellowship equip me with skills and confidence to pivot my career into the startup ecosystem, it also introduced me to an incredible cohort of incredible,  ambitious women. The startup ecosystem attracts some brilliant people, many of whom I have been lucky to meet."

Jarman Stephens

Co-founder @ gridmo

Jarman Stephens

Co-founder @ gridmo

“We were fortunate enough to be accepted into the new Smartmate accelerator program and went through a pretty intense 12 weeks which was, honestly, life changing.”

Jaz Yates

Founder @ Releasr

Jaz Yates

Founder @ Releasr

“I loved the opportunity to be able to build around others trying just as hard to build their own successful startup ups. Bonding over the wins and the struggles was a game changer for me and my motivation to keep pushing my startup.”

‍

Jerry X'Lingson

Bachelor of Biomedicine @ UniMelb

Jerry X'Lingson

Bachelor of Biomedicine @ UniMelb

"The Startmate Fellowship was an amazing experience that exceeded all my expectations! The program provided invaluable resources and mentorship, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally. The opportunity to also belong to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs was truly invaluable and has helped me take my next step forwards with absolute confidence."

Jessica Durrington

Founder @ Dowē

Jessica Durrington

Founder @ Dowē

“Launch Club gives you the momentum, connections and guidance you need to turn a problem into a business solution with serious potential - and fast! The resources and continued access to a community of the countries cleverest innovators and investors is truly invaluable.”

Joel Hassin

Cambooya Capital - Investor

Joel Hassin

Cambooya Capital - Investor

"If you’ve ever wanted to start investing in the people who are building big things for the future and solving high-value problems but don’t feel like you’d know where to start or feel there are barriers to getting involved, First Believers is for you. What you’ll find is a powerful community of some of the most ambitious and open-minded investors, operators and founders in the world."

Joey Moshinsky

Co-Founder & Joint CEO @ Tutero

Joey Moshinsky

Co-Founder & Joint CEO @ Tutero

“Applying to Startmate was one of our best decisions to introduce Tutero into the Australian startup community.”

Joseph Faust

Chief Digital Officer @ GoSee

Joseph Faust

Chief Digital Officer @ GoSee

"The climate tech program was a whirlwind tour covering all aspects of this critical space and I loved meeting so many emerging and established climate leaders across Australia and New Zealand!"

Joy Yin

Bachelor of Computer Science @ UQ

Joy Yin

Bachelor of Computer Science @ UQ

"Startmate opens up opportunities within the startup ecosystem through a community found nowhere else."

Julia Kay

Co-CEO and Co-founder @ Great Wrap

Julia Kay

Co-CEO and Co-founder @ Great Wrap

“When we went through Startmate we had only a pilot factory that we didn’t know how to run. Now we’re a team of 30 manufacturing 100,000 rolls of compostable stretch wrap every day. Startmate was incredible for us. It really helped build out our network and be surrounded by founders going through the same challenges, and we still use that network today. We wish we could go through it again.”

Julia Zhang

Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science @ USYD

Julia Zhang

Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science @ USYD

"The Student Fellowship was such an incredible experience. I learnt so much about the start up space, made numerous new connections, learnt so many valuable insights from coaches and peers, and got to create and pitch a product that I was passionate about! Couldn't recommend it more to students interested in entrepreneurship and the startup realm."

Kai Bloomfield

Founder @ TrainStop

Kai Bloomfield

Founder @ TrainStop

“Love the connections we have made and super excited to see the other companies in the inaugural Buildmate program take off!”

‍

Kai Van Lieshout

Founder @ Lyrebird Health

Kai Van Lieshout

Founder @ Lyrebird Health

“I think a lot of people have an idea, and then they get paralysed about what to do. Launch Club provides really great clarity around the next steps.”

Kate Sherburn

Head of Legal @ Who Gives A Crap

Kate Sherburn

Head of Legal @ Who Gives A Crap

"The best thing has truly been meeting the amazing cohort of women. In terms of the content we've covered, it would be hard to pick just one thing - but I think the top two would probably be learning about my saboteurs and the workshop on difficult conversations. I've printed out the problems vs possibilities image and have it next to my computer as a reminder!"

Keenzia Wilde-Budd

Community Support Specialist @ Hireup

Keenzia Wilde-Budd

Community Support Specialist @ Hireup

"The Women’s Fellowship over delivered!  You can become a freaking genius about entering into the startup ecosystem but only if you DO THE WORK in the fellowship.  And oh how it is worth it.  The rewards are priceless.  Make the Women’s Fellowship apart of your daily habits for 8 weeks and you will be amazed.  No joke."

Kim Burke

Wharf Road Investments - Director

Kim Burke

Wharf Road Investments - Director

“Startmate gives virtually unlimited opportunity to see deal flow and build pattern recognition.  Best education in the space you could imagine.  Even seasoned investors would benefit.”

Kirstin McIntosh

Co-founder @ Something Real Ventures

Kirstin McIntosh

Co-founder @ Something Real Ventures

"Love this whole concept. It really was an opportunity to be part of something very special at the outset. The learnings, personal growth and the friendships have been worth every second. I was seeking a community when I applied, but I ended up with so much more."

Lara Antoniolli

Lead Cloud Infrastructure Engineer @ Ericsson

Lara Antoniolli

Lead Cloud Infrastructure Engineer @ Ericsson

"I came into the Fellowship quite lost and not sure what I wanted to do. I left the Fellowship with a great new network of amazing women and with a much clearer picture of what I wanted to do with my life in the startup ecosystem. It really helped my clarify what I wanted, what was important to me and build my confidence.‹"

Lauren Holloway

Chief of Staff @ E-liability Institute

Lauren Holloway

Chief of Staff @ E-liability Institute

"I loved learning about all the amazing start ups doing incredible work as disruptors across NZ and Australia, and the people behind them! I feel very inspired by their drive to solve some of the most pressing social and environmental challenges of our time. Plus connecting with like-minded changemakers through the Fellowship who share a commitment to make a positive impact."

Leah Lucas

Program Manager @ CSIRO

Leah Lucas

Program Manager @ CSIRO

"The Startmate Women Fellowship was a rocket ship to developing my next career pivot. Great network, generous mentors and a kickass community of amazing women!"

Lutjen Lee

Bachelor of Law @ RMIT

Lutjen Lee

Bachelor of Law @ RMIT

"The startmate connections and community are great. It provides so many opportunities to meet amazing people during the program and continuously once the program is done."

Marie Bondeville

Founder @ Newsary

Marie Bondeville

Founder @ Newsary

"Launch Club is to aspiring or early-stage Founder community what Canva is to their tech stack: game-changing."

Mathew Velcic

Investment Analyst @ 5B

Mathew Velcic

Investment Analyst @ 5B

"The climate tech fellowship has been fantastic for allowing me to dive deep in a broad range of cleantech topics and to develop a network of like-minded individuals."

Matt Herring

KPMG - Partner

Matt Herring

KPMG - Partner

"First Believers is the must-do program for any aspiring or current angel investor. It took my understanding and connections within the start-up ecosystem from 1 to 100. I could not recommend this program more highly to anyone who is keen to learn more about the ANZ start-up ecosystem and how to back aspiring founders."

Melanie Booth

Community Organiser @ Nature Conservation Council NSW

Melanie Booth

Community Organiser @ Nature Conservation Council NSW

"I gained such a well-rounded, realistic insight into the Startup eco-system and what it’s like to run or work in a startup. If you’re at all curious, I couldn’t recommend this program enough."

Melissa Beaumont Lee

Skip Capital Foundation - CEO

Melissa Beaumont Lee

Skip Capital Foundation - CEO

"First Believers transformed me into an Angel Investor. It’s part of my identity now and I am thrilled. Being able to support Australia’s newest Founders is a huge privilege, sometimes I still pinch myself. First Believers has been a pivotal life moment for me."

Michael Weiner

Founder @ Tanna AI

Michael Weiner

Founder @ Tanna AI

"Great to work and collaborate with other founders!"

Neil Mans

Co-founder & CTO @ ZeroJet

Neil Mans

Co-founder & CTO @ ZeroJet

“I remember thinking most of the mentors were nuts. They were pushing us to take a product to market before we had even designed it. I didn’t understand how you could do that. They pushed us so hard to get out there and sell to customers. That was the best advice that I was ever given: sell before you’re ready to sell.”

Nick Sinclair

Airbnb - Head of Marketing APAC

Nick Sinclair

Airbnb - Head of Marketing APAC

"This program really opens doors! I really loved the practical and hand-on nature of the learning which was always geared toward action. It was an excellent way to take my knowledge from near-zero to hero in only 12 weeks."

Nicole Tang

Chief of Staff @ Finder

Nicole Tang

Chief of Staff @ Finder

"Loved the more casual convo style of our peer advisory groups - made it feel more like a group of friends sharing advice / tips with each other."

Nicole Tesler

Broker Assistant @ MGA Insurance Group

Nicole Tesler

Broker Assistant @ MGA Insurance Group

"I had such an incredible experience doing the women fellowship. It was such a supportive, caring, enthusiastic community that I feel very lucky to be part of. "

Oren Bahari

Founder @ Ractivi

Oren Bahari

Founder @ Ractivi

"The Startmate and Launch Club community is invaluable for an early-stage founder. I am a naturally skeptical person, but the program exceeded my expectations in content, involvement and community, and I feel dumb for ever doubting it"

Peer Advisory Groups

Think of this as an advisory board for YOU. 

Peer Advisory Groups

Think of this as an advisory board for YOU. 

6-8 hand-picked peers based on professional experience and stage in career journey.

Meet with them in-real-life. Tap into their collective knowledge. Overcome the challenges you face. 

From navigating a predominantly male team to feedback on your decision-making to ideas on how to run an important meeting. Your advisory board will be your comrades to find a path through.

Learn more here.

Role hubs

Every role has challenges. Don’t tackle these alone. 

Role hubs

Every role has challenges. Don’t tackle these alone. 

Your role hub will be filled with peers in similar roles. It’s your place to soundboard the challenges you face in your role. Share expertise and resources. Engage in regular discussions on the topics you need.

These will be your teammates to help tackle the hard stuff. Level-up alongside people who get it and are doing it too.

Romy Mueller

Stakeholder & Community Partnership Manager @ VicReturn

Romy Mueller

Stakeholder & Community Partnership Manager @ VicReturn

"Fantastic opportunity for networking with, and getting to learn from, exceptionally bright people in the industry."

Rory San Miguel

Co-founder and CEO @ Propeller Aero

Rory San Miguel

Co-founder and CEO @ Propeller Aero

“We’ve done Startmate twice now. Startmate helps you turn you into someone who can run a company. Having some forcing us to talk to 100 customers per week
 you won't have that pressure anywhere else”

Ruby Jones

Chief Operating Officer @ Aquila

Ruby Jones

Chief Operating Officer @ Aquila

"Coaching is awesome. You absolutely get the most out of it by paying close attention to your peers because you learn while they talk."

Sahil Kumar

Renewable Energy Consultant @ UPowr

Sahil Kumar

Renewable Energy Consultant @ UPowr

"I loved how supportive the community was! Everyone wants to help each other and that is always a treat to behold."

Samantha Wilson

Head of Strategy @ Woolworths Group

Samantha Wilson

Head of Strategy @ Woolworths Group

"I read my list of reasons why “I am remarkable” before interviews and it definitely reminds me how far I’ve come and how much I have to offer. Thanks Startmate for helping me get my mojo back!"

Shelley Blankfield

Senior Manager Corporate Strategy @ Transurban

Shelley Blankfield

Senior Manager Corporate Strategy @ Transurban

"Amazing opportunity to meet new people and to learn and grow out of my comfort zone!"

Shishir Pandit

Strategy & Commercialisation Lead - Cleantech @ Helixos

Shishir Pandit

Strategy & Commercialisation Lead - Cleantech @ Helixos

"A fantastic way to quickly understand what is happening in the Climate Tech space and meet some amazing likeminded people. The Fellowship definitely helped me secure my next job in the Climate Tech space"

Steph Skevington

Co-founder @ Butter

Steph Skevington

Co-founder @ Butter

“The Accelerator is a really competitive program and a lot is asked from you during this program, but knowing that will allow you make the most out of the opportunity, whether that means investment, mentors, or connections.”

Toni O'Neill

Commercial Partnerships Manager @ AMP

Toni O'Neill

Commercial Partnerships Manager @ AMP

"The quality of mentors and advisers was out of this world."

Tracie Thompson

CEO & Co-founder @ Hackhunter

Tracie Thompson

CEO & Co-founder @ Hackhunter

“I can remember just being absolutely disbelieving that we actually got in, I was running around the house screaming ‘this is going to change our lives forever!...And it has.”

Upcoming Masterclass: How to build confidence

The confidence gap is real and we need to close it.

Upcoming Masterclass: How to build confidence

The confidence gap is real and we need to close it.

Studies reveal that men frequently overestimate their abilities and performance, while women underestimate both. Men are 60% more likely to consider themselves confident in their profession compared to women.

Confidence isn’t something you are born with or just ‘have’, it’s something you need to develop. The first masterclass will help you do this.

Upcoming Speakers

Hear from the very best.

Upcoming Speakers

Hear from the very best.

Rachel Lounds, founder and CEO of Rachel Lounds Coaching, Sydney 

‍

Anna Meirelles, coach and facilitator at the Coach Place, Melbourne

Verity Tuck

LVLY - Co-founder

Verity Tuck

LVLY - Co-founder

“My experience on the First Believers program was beyond expectations. First Believers provided an inclusive, expansive community to share and explore how to get involved in angel investing. The SM team were awesome. No BS, no egos, just great people. Would highly recommend!”

Victoria Tran

Client Associate @ Carat Australia

Victoria Tran

Client Associate @ Carat Australia

"I've met so many amazing, ambitious and inspiring women in this program. Would highly recommend."

Vinnay Cchoda

Manager @ Responsible Investments

Vinnay Cchoda

Manager @ Responsible Investments

"The Startmate ClimateTech Fellowship is a fantastic opportunity to get across the ClimateTech landscape. It covers a comprehensive suite of topics across 8 weeks of interactive sessions with industry experts. I loved being a part of the inaugural cohort where I found myself surrounded by a like-minded community of passionate individuals committed to addressing the pressing challenge of climate change."

William Cook

Bachelor of Law and Cyber Security @ Deakin University

William Cook

Bachelor of Law and Cyber Security @ Deakin University

"Loved this program - a great way to meet new people and learn a ton of new things. Resparked my passion for startups!"

Zena Mwende

Autumn 23 Cohort

Zena Mwende

Autumn 23 Cohort

"Having a supportive community is paramount to building a successful business. Joining Launch Club has granted me access to an incredible community, and I am filled with great enthusiasm as I embark on my startup journey, knowing that I am surrounded by invaluable support and expertise!"

Zhen Liu

Bachelor of Computer Science @ UniMelb

Zhen Liu

Bachelor of Computer Science @ UniMelb

"Startmate Student Fellowship is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime, life changing experience. My mindset, ability to network, courage to found a start-up idea with other passionate individuals grew so much that is beyond how much I could have imagined. It's the best community I have ever been in!"

Zoe Champtaloup

Director of Operations & General Counsel @ Perx Health

Zoe Champtaloup

Director of Operations & General Counsel @ Perx Health

"I've been coming away from every session with tangible, practical advice to tackle my biggest challenges from people who've actually been through it before or are currently navigating the same thing. Plus, it's been really special to meet such an awesome group of women."

How do we give you an
‍unfair advantage?

đŸ’«

Our belief in you changes what you (and others) think you’re capable of.

We hear it time and time again: having someone who sees something in you that no one else does is a powerful ambition raiser. We’ll push you, but we’ll also be your biggest champions forever - we’ll continue to invest in you every time you raise through our auto-deploy Continuity fund. Having the Startmate brand behind you will be a stamp of approval to every potential investor or employee you meet.

â€ïžâ€đŸ”„

Relentless focus on what is most important

The Accelerator is defined by customer obsession. You’ll spend 12 weeks having some of the most pivotal conversations of your startup’s life. You’ll be laser focused on listening, learning and building a product that your customers really, really want.

👬

Founders need other founders

Being a founder can be incredibly lonely. The most powerful thing that will happen to you at Startmate is that you’ll work alongside some of the most ambitious founders of this generation who are facing the same challenges you are. These founders will become some of the most important people in your journey.

💾

We invest in your potential

You’re never too early. You can be pre-product, pre-customers, pre-revenue - we’re here for it. We’re industry agnostic, we don’t care about your CV, and we have one of the most gender-diverse portfolios in ANZ (40% women co-founded companies across the last 6 cohorts).

🏆

World-class mentors in your corner

Our mentors invest their own money in the fund that directly invests in you, meaning they will run through brick walls to see you succeed. You’ll have a squad of mentors who are deeply connected with the problem you’re solving.

đŸ’Ș

You’ll stand on the shoulders of the best startup community in ANZ

We’ve curated a community of 3,500+ of ANZ’s best founders, operators and investors. You’ll plug in to the very centre of this universe. Your unfair advantage is that you’ll get the first pick of the best fresh talent through our fellowships and a warm intro to any VC, angel investor, or mentor you need.

World-class mentors in your corner.

Unlike most other accelerators, the $120k we invest in your startup comes directly from our mentor community. This means every mentor has skin in the game and is personally invested in seeing you succeed.

Check out our
‍track record

  • 50% of companies raise post-accelerator
  • Startups raise an average of $1.8mil. off the back of the accelerator

Are you a wildly ambitious founder and pre Series A fundraise?
‍The Accelerator is for you.

🙏

We're industry agnostic.

‍We've invested in companies spanning an insanely diverse range of industries. From ed-tech, health-tech, prop-tech and climate-tech to space-tech, fin-tech and legal-tech.

đŸ’Ș

You're never too early.

‍67% of Accelerator companies had no revenue when they appliedand every cohort has had at least one company that is idea-stage and pre-MVP.

👭

We strive for equal representation.

‍Diversity builds smarter solutions. Since 2021, 40% of our companies have 1 or more women co-founders.

Are you a wildly ambitious founder and pre Series A fundraise?
‍The Accelerator is for you.

🙏

We're industry agnostic.
‍
We've invested in companies spanning an insanely diverse range of industries. From ed-tech, health-tech, prop-tech and climate-tech to space-tech, fin-tech and legal-tech.

đŸ’Ș

You're never too early.
‍
67% of Accelerator companies had no revenue when they applied and every cohort has had at least one company that is idea-stage and pre-MVP.

👭

We strive for equal representation.
‍
Diversity builds smarter solutions. Since 2021, 40% of our companies have 1 or more women co-founders.

Apply for the upcoming
Startmate Accelerator

If you’re ready to move faster than you ever thought possible, build a better product with more users, and get the best platform in ANZ to raise capital, apply for the Startmate Accelerator. 

📆

Program Dates:
JUL 14–OCT 10 2025 (12 WEEKS)

Program Dates: JUL 14–OCT 10 2025 (12 WEEKS)

✏

Applications Close:
11:59PM NOV 10

Applications Close: 11:59PM NOV 10

What you’ll get out of the Accelerator 
  1. Investment: We invest AUD 120k in each company so that all your energy is focused on building your startup.
  2. Founder friends: You’ll be surrounded by a cohort of equally ambitious founders on the same journey.
  3. Pitch perfect: We’ll tear your pitch deck to shreds and by the end of the Accelerator you’ll have a bulletproof deck ready for investors.
  4. Launch your startup to the world: Pitch your startup to an audience of thousands at Demo Day.
  5. A product people want: You’ll spend 12 weeks laser-focused on your customer, how you can improve your product and the results to drive meaningful growth
  6. Mentorship: You’ll be partnered with ANZ’s most successful founders, operators and investors who have skin in the game and will run through brick walls to see you succeed 
  7. SME: We’ll connect you with subject matter experts who can provide tailored industry advice on how to approach your business
  8. Community: You’ll gain access to ANZ’s largest startup community of founders, operators and investors who are ready to support you on your journey.  
  9. World-class talent pool: Within our 2000+ startmate fellowship alumni are the hires you need to take your startup to the next level at your fingertips: pre-vetted, upskilled, and hungry to join a high-growth startup. 
  10. The best platform in ANZ to raise capital: Having the Startmate brand behind you will be a stamp of approval to every potential investor or employee you meet.

Frequently asked questions

What are Startmate investment terms?

Startmate invests:

  • AUD $120k on an AUD $1.5m post-money valuation for founders who have not raised at least AUD $200k previously; or
  • AUD $120k, matching the last valuation for founders who have previously raised at least AUD $200k at that valuation.

When does the program run?

The Accelerator currently runs twice per year: Summer (January-April) and Winter (July-October).

Do I need to be full-time on my startup?

Yes, one of the cofounders does. We will only commit if you're committed. That's why we invest $120k: so you can focus 100% on solving the problem and moving the metrics that matter, week on week.

What if I’ve raised capital already?

You’re still a great fit for the program! We’ve invested in startups with angel, pre-seed, and seed funding. The program’s laser focus on customer feedback and market validation is incredibly relevant to companies that are looking to scale. Additionally, handpicked mentors in your corner helping you address challenges as they arise continues to be invaluable for more established teams.

Is the program online or in person?

Most of the program is virtual, with the exception of Week 0 which is in-person and held in either Melbourne or Sydney, and Demo Day, also in-person in Melbourne or Sydney. 

This means you can participate from anywhere in the world. However, it’s worth noting that we have designed the program to be especially time-zone friendly to Australia and New Zealand.

What is the time commitment?

On average, the time commitment for sessions is 2-4 hours per week. Each week you will have a one hour mandatory “All Hands” session with your cohort. The rest of the sessions are completely optional. You can pick and choose which sessions will be most valuable to you. 

Important: In Week 0, there are 3 days in-person and in Week 12, 2-3 days to prepare for Demo Day.

Where can I see a copy of the application questions?

You can read about the application questions and top tips for your application here!

How do we select which companies make it into the program?

Startmate Accelerator selection is a 3 step process over the course of 3 weeks at the end of which we make an offer to join the cohort.

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Stage 1 - online application + 3mins video (~1h)

Each application is reviewed by at least 3 mentors independently. Mentors are all personally invested in the fund and are looking for the founders who stand out the most - connection to the problem, size of ambition, customer conversations etc.

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Stage 2 - round robin interviews (2.5h) - remote

At this stage you get to meet 10 mentors in 10mins back to back conversations. This is a high energy fast speed interview round that allows you to really hone the story of your company.

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Stage 3 - in depth interview (1h) - remote

Finally, you’ve got an hour in-depth interview with 3-4 of our mentors including a Startmate team member. Here we’re going deep into your product, vision and any open questions from the previous rounds.

You are never too early

Our goal is to find and fund the most ambitious early-stage founders in ANZ. This means we invest in pre-product founders. Generally, our early-stage founders usually meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Have a problem they want to solve & are ready to go full-time
  • Started building an MVP or proof of concept
  • Have built an MVP or proof of concept
  • Have paying customers
  • Are pre-Series A

Think you may be too early? You are probably not! Apply to our Accelerator and also apply to our pre-accelerator called Launch Club.

Get to know our Accelerator Alumni

Get to know our Alumni and connect with them directly through the Brdg link

Join a community that will help you go from idea to IPO

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Hiring

We have over 3000+ of ANZ’s most talented operators in our community. Our incredible Startmate fellows are hungry to join a high-growth startup and ready to support you on your journey.

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Investors

We have built an army of over 250 early stage investors who are inspired by your commitment to changing the world. They are here, ready to be your First Believers, and invest.

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Funding

We invest in you from day one and continue to believe in you forever after. This is a unique fund in ANZ that automatically invests all Startmate pro-rata for our alumni, which means you can go into your fundraising conversations already knowing you have the Startmate pro-rata committed

Essential Reading

Apply for the upcoming
Startmate Accelerator

If you’re ready to move faster than you ever thought possible, build a better product with more users, and get the best platform in ANZ to raise capital, apply for the Startmate Accelerator. 

📆

Program Dates: JUL 14–OCT 10 2025 (12 WEEKS)

✏

Applications Close: 11:59PM NOV 10

What you’ll get out of the Accelerator 
  1. Investment: We invest AUD 120k in each company so that all your energy is focused on building your startup.
  2. Founder friends: You’ll be surrounded by a cohort of equally ambitious founders on the same journey.
  3. Pitch perfect: We’ll tear your pitch deck to shreds and by the end of the Accelerator you’ll have a bulletproof deck ready for investors.
  4. Launch your startup to the world: Pitch your startup to an audience of thousands at Demo Day.
  5. A product people want: You’ll spend 12 weeks laser-focused on your customer, how you can improve your product and the results to drive meaningful growth
  6. Mentorship: You’ll be partnered with ANZ’s most successful founders, operators and investors who have skin in the game and will run through brick walls to see you succeed 
  7. SME: We’ll connect you with subject matter experts who can provide tailored industry advice on how to approach your business
  8. Community: You’ll gain access to ANZ’s largest startup community of founders, operators and investors who are ready to support you on your journey.  
  9. World-class talent pool: Within our 2000+ startmate fellowship alumni are the hires you need to take your startup to the next level at your fingertips: pre-vetted, upskilled, and hungry to join a high-growth startup. 
  10. The best platform in ANZ to raise capital: Having the Startmate brand behind you will be a stamp of approval to every potential investor or employee you meet.