Integrated Innovation Network
Pre-Accelerator
Applications now closed.
I2N Pre-accelerator is designed to provide a guided experience to quickly and cost-effectively determine pathways to market for an idea, invention, or research project. Over the course of 8 weeks, teams will experience hands-on learning to validate a fit between a significant problem and their idea.
Did you miss the I2N Pre-Accelerator Information Session? Watch the recording below.
I2N Pre-Accelerator Information Session
Over the course of this program founders will experience hands-on learning and high-quality support including:
- Startup insight workshops from subject matter experts to help validate your idea or solution
- Weekly coaching from a dedicated Entrepreneur in Residence
- Peer network development
- I2N perk partner benefits
Founders do not need to be affiliated with the University of Newcastle to be eligible for the I2N Pre-accelerator. However, pre-startups/startups need to be headquartered in the Hunter or Central Coast Regions.
Important dates
Pre-Accelerator applications closed Sunday 7 April
Pre-Accelerator program dates from May - June
Who should apply*
- Your pre-startup/startup is headquartered in the Central Coast or Hunter Region
- Teams can consist of between 1-3 founders
- You are leveraging technology to deliver a new-to-market product or service
- You are a committed and growth-oriented founder/founding team with ambition to scale
- You can attend weekly workshops, office hours, and Entrepreneur in Residence sessions
- You are open to feedback and are coachable
- You want to join the All-Industries Accelerator or Cleantech Accelerator in late 2024
- Your company is at the pre-series A funding stage
*Agencies and consultancies are excluded.
Submit an EOII2N Pre-Accelerator
Frequently Asked Questions
The program will take place at I2N Hub Honeysuckle, Q Building, 16 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle.
We are looking to support founders who are at pre-startup stage through to the early-stage startup stage. Indicators include having a clear and meaningful target and direction over the next 1-3 years; that you've identified specific needs within a market and have hypothesised a potential business model.
Teams can consist of between 1-3 founders.
No. Founders do not need to be affiliated with the University of Newcastle to be eligible for the I2N Pre-Accelerator. However, pre-startups/startups need to be headquartered in the Central Coast or Hunter Region.
We would like all program participants to be playing from the same position of knowledge throughout the entire program. There is always space for validation work within every business model and getting that right in the beginning will serve as a great platform from which to enter the I2N Accelerator program.
The I2N Pre-Accelerator is optional, however all teams must complete the Boot Camp in July to be considered for the I2N Accelerator.
Pre-accelerator workshop requirements are up to 8 hours each Wednesday 9AM – 4PM.
Entrepreneur In Residence (EIR) meetings are 30-minutes weekly at a time that suits.
Attendance by all team members at the workshops and EIR meetings is mandatory. Exceptions will be considered only in exceptional circumstances and on a case-by-case basis.
There is an expectation that founders will undertake ongoing customer discovery scheduling and interviewing throughout the week. Carefully consider your capacity to commit to the program before making an application.
Applications are reviewed before offers are made to teams or individuals who address essential criteria. That is, the problem you are trying to solve, the potential solution you have in mind, and who the end-users/beneficiaries you have identified. Your application doesn't have to be 'right', it just needs to demonstrate that you have thought about the problem you are trying to develop a solution for, the insight, invention, or idea you are taking advantage of, and have provided your best possible 'guess' about what that might be and who would most benefit. We also consider what has motivated the team to apply and what you hope to achieve in addition to team member profiles and their potential contribution to the team.
As part of your application you are required to supply a 3-minute video answering:
- Who you are
- What is the problem you are you solving
- What is the potential solution you have in mind
- Who are the end users or beneficiaries
- Why you and your team are the best to solve it
Please feel free to book a 15-minute Q&A Zoom session via this link.
Absolutely. The questions are saved in this word document for your review.
Intellectual Property (IP)
The University of Newcastle makes no claim over the intellectual property (IP) generated by participants as part of the I2N Pre-Accelerator (subject to the University’s IP Policy and Procedure) provided your use of the IP acknowledges that the IP was developed as part of the I2N Pre-Accelerator (unless it is unreasonable to do so).
If a team member is an employee or student of the University of Newcastle, they agree and acknowledge that ownership of the IP will be in accordance with the University IP Policy and Procedure, as amended from time to time. IP Policy found here. IP Procedure found here.
Testimonials
"The I2N Program transformed the entrepreneurial journey into an incredible adventure. It wasn't just the resources and program content they provided, but the sense of community and support that truly made a difference. With the backing of the I2N team, what seemed like Mount Everest became a series of achievable steps, leading to the successful launch of a new business". Avril Dunn, EI Platform
"Thanks to the Program, I've gained confidence in transforming my idea into a viable business. The program's mentorship and resources have been pivotal. Networking opportunities expanded my professional connections and actively showcased my skills and aspirations, which have significantly increased my visibility". Tania Papasotiriou, BeeMo
Why I2N?
The University of Newcastle's I2N works with individuals and organisations from across the Hunter region and beyond to turn ideas and challenges into opportunities. As a leading driver of economic and business growth, the I2N cultivates entrepreneurial mindsets behind many of the region's most innovative businesses and leaders.
Our programs are more than theory. They are about action and equipping you with practical tools and strategies necessary to have an immediate impact on your innovation journey.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.