I2N Cleantech Accelerator
The I2N Cleantech Accelerator is designed to build the capability and competitiveness of tech-enabled entrepreneurs within the Hunter region, regardless of their affiliation to the University of Newcastle, across the sectors of clean energy, clean water, recycling and waste, supply chain, built environment, air quality, and transportation.
Sign up to hear about the next cohort Watch the information session
What's it like to take part in the I2N Accelerator?
Hear from our program alumni as they share their experience growing their venture with the support of the I2N Accelerator
Benefits
Over 13 weeks, all participants get hands-on experience and these bespoke benefits:
- The I2N Community: there's a reason I2N is the most recommended regional Accelerator program in Australia (Startup Muster, 2024). For almost 10 years we've built a vibrant community of founders, experts, mentors and investors. By taking part in an I2N program you'll have the ability to tap into the exact support you need when you need it.
- Deep expertise: our carefully selected program mentors, experts, and entrepreneurs in residence work alongside founders to build their capacity as venture builders and problem solvers. Together, we're supporting our region to diversify its economy and create sustainable opportunities for future generations.
- Dedicated Program Partners: it takes a village to build a startup, and our programs connect you with some of Australia's best resources. Cleantech founders gain access to the Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy's networks and funding programs. Healthtech founders connect with the Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab's extensive network of partners, experts, and funding opportunities. All founders receive initial intellectual property and trademark support from Davies Collison Cave.
Important dates
- Applications open: Monday 28 April
- Info Session: Friday 16 May, 1PM-2PM
- Applications close: Sunday 6 July
Program schedule
- Bootcamp: Wed 23 Jul - Thu 24 Jul
- Accelerator phase: Mon 11 Aug - Wed 5 Nov
- Incubator phase: Nov 2025 - 30 Jun, 2026
Who should apply*
- Your pre-startup/startup is headquartered in the Central Coast or Hunter Region
- You are solving a problem in one or more of the following sectors; clean energy, clean water, recycling and waste, supply chain, built environment, air quality, and transportation
- You are leveraging technology to deliver a new-to-market product or service
- You are an Australian registered Pty Ltd company if you intend to access the accelerator phase
- Your company is at the pre-series A funding stage
- You have full ownership of your Intellectual Property
- You are a committed and growth-oriented founder/founding team
- You can attend weekly workshops, office hours, and mentoring sessions
- You have the ambition to scale
- You are open to feedback and are coachable
*Agencies and consultancies are excluded.
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; having the ability to develop a prototype without having to depend on external funding, or already have a product in the market that may be generating sales.
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 Cleantech Accelerator. However, pre-startups/startups need to be headquartered in the Hunter or Central Coast regions.
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 Accelerator phase.
The I2N Pre-Accelerator is optional, however all teams must complete the Boot Camp in July to be considered for the I2N Cleantech Accelerator.
For Pre-Accelerator attendance requirements please see the Pre-Accelerator webpage.
I2N Cleantech Accelerator workshop requirements are up to 8 hours each Wednesday 9AM – 5PM for 13-weeks.
Entrepreneur In Residence (EIR) meetings are 1 hour weekly at a time that suits.
Lead Mentor meetings are 1 hour each week at a time that suits.
Industry Connector meetings are 1 hour every three weeks at a time that suits.
Attendance by all team members at the workshops, EIR meetings, Lead Mentor meetings and Industry Connector 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 a minimum of 10 additional hours per week to put into practice the workshop and coaching learnings. 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 and in which cleantech vertical?
- 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 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 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.
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.