Driving Innovation in the Hunter: Meet I2N's 2024 Scaleup Cohort
The Hunter Region's innovation ecosystem continues to flourish as three remarkable companies join the I2N Scaleup Program.
This intensive 3-month journey connects ambitious founders who have previously participated in I2N Accelerator with the resources, mentorship, and community they need to accelerate their growth and expand their impact.
Scroll down to discover the visionaries who are scaling their solutions to reshape industries across Australia.
Transforming Lives Through Technology: Ariel Community
Ariel Community founder Jordan Freeman
Ariel Community is revolutionising how communities approach disability inclusion through their bespoke tech. The team have developed a platform that bridges the gap between people with disabilities and Australian businesses, creating meaningful and highly valuable opportunities for both sides of their marketplace.
Traditionally, accessibility and compliance are the features prioritised in disability and inclusion platforms, but the Ariel team are bucking the trend by offering interactive features that help businesses understand, implement, and maintain inclusive practices. By incorporating real user experience and feedback loops at each step, Ariel ensures that inclusion initiatives create lasting positive change rather than just meeting minimum standards.
“The I2N Scaleup Program was more than just a program; it became a catalyst for unleashing our potential. It equipped us with newfound confidence and a firm belief in our mission. The nurturing environment allowed us to refine our vision and acquire essential skills for our ambitious goals. The journey through the program was a metamorphosis, giving us a clear direction and purpose.”
-Jordan Freeman
Reimagining Business Transitions: BusinessSales.com.au
BusinessSales.com.au co-founders Ian Jones and Keiran James
BusinessSales.com.au is tackling one of the most challenging aspects of company building: business exits. Cofounders Keiran James and Ian Jones have launched Australia's first purpose-built live sales platform, providing small and medium-sized business owners with the tools and support needed for successful business transitions.
The platform's innovative approach includes AI-powered valuation tools and a comprehensive deal room that streamlines the entire sales process, reducing transaction times by up to 40%. Their solution also provides crucial post-sale support, ensuring smooth handovers and business continuity.
"The I2N Scaleup Program has really driven home the importance of listening to our customers to help understand the tools and technology they need. It’s helped BusinessSales.com.au clarify our goals and deliver a plan to scale the platform to serve the 2.5 million hardworking Australian small business owners and the communities that rely on them."
- Keiran James
Powering Smarter Energy Decisions: ei platform
EI Platform co-founders Jonathan Carroll and Avril Dunn
ei platform represents the future of energy management. Founded by industry veterans Avril Dunn, Jonathan Carroll, and Matthew Campbell, the team combine AI tech with deep electrical engineering expertise to enhance the way businesses manage their energy consumption, opening their infrastructure up to modern electrification.
Their ei™ platform delivers personalised energy recommendations, predicts future power requirements, and guides users through the complexity of solar and EV charging integration and upcoming tariff changes.
“The I2N Scaleup Program has been a game-changer for me, especially through its one-on-one mentorship. Having someone who brings a fresh perspective and truly understands the unique challenges I face has been invaluable. My mentor’s insights, drawn from their own experiences, have helped me see things differently and make more confident decisions for my business.”
- Avril Dunn
I2N Scaleup Program Entrepreneur in Residence Andrew Stead
The I2N Scaleup Program’s Entrepreneur in Residence, Andrew Stead, brings a depth of experience in planning and executing on growth strategies. His oversight and expertise draws on years of product innovation at some of Australia’s most exciting research organisations, scaleups and corporates, supporting founding teams to secure $100m+ in funding and negotiate exits with the likes of Google and IAG.
"Having been involved with a broad range of startups across accelerators, venture studios, and investment firms, I've learned that scaling a business is as much about the founder's journey as it is about the metrics. What's particularly energising about the I2N Scaleup Program is the opportunity to work with founders at this critical inflection point, where the right strategic decisions and partnerships can significantly impact their trajectory."
- Andrew Stead
Are you the next scaling superstar? If you want to join the I2N Accelerator cohort in 2025 submit a short EOI to keep updated.
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