Meet the 2023 I2N Accelerator cohort
The 2023 I2N Accelerator cohort is here, solving wicked problems and creating massive positive impact in the process.
From disability inclusion and building energy use intelligence all the way through to fostering community and communication in aged care facilities, this cohort is casting a wide net to solve some of humanity's biggest issues.
Each founder has spent significant time this year validating their problem-solution in our Pre-Accelerator program, and are now deep into the Accelerator program preparing to launch into their growth trajectory.

The I2N Accelerator program will culminate in a Demo Night November 9 where each venture will share their learning's after an intense 10-week journey of customer interviews, market analysis, and business model validation. Tickets are free but very limited, reserve your spot.
To get a peek at each idea before this year's Demo Night, scroll down.
Ariel Community

Founded by University of Newcastle alumni Jordan Freeman and Kate Maslen, Ariel Community is on a mission to improve access to the world for the disability community. Their two-sided marketplace is bridging the gap between individuals with a disability and inclusive businesses, inspring advocacy and capable communities.
Founded by: Kate Maslen (Bachelor of Graphic Design at University of Newcastle) & Jordan Freeman (Bachelor of Communication at University of Newcastle)
CCS CorporationCCS are focused on eradicating social isolation in residential agedcare, one meaningful interaction at a time. They have spent 30 years creating hugely popular board games, but are turning that talent in the direction of enjoyable human interactions for our ageing community. Founded by: Leonie Cutts & Craig Brown |
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| Yellow ShelfEver found yourself wondering, "what should I read next?". Turns out there's a huge community of people pondering the same question, and Yellow Shelf have the answer! Their platform connects readers to newly released books with a curated newsletter featuring deep dive interviews with authors. It is the place where authors, publishers, and readers converge - and where users feel connected with authors. Founded by: Johanna Fink (Bachelor of Social Sciences (International Relations) at University of Newcastle) |
ei Platform

Imagine if your building could not only tell you how it uses energy in real-time but also control and predict future usage and costs... That's the power of the energy intelligence platform or ei™platform. This device, coupled with AI-driven software, facilitates easy reporting and even allows you to control demand in real time and other energy saving features. Already seeing adoption in large residential buildings, the team have their eyes set managing energy demand across the country.
Founded by: Jonathan Carroll (Bachelor of Electrical Engineering at University of Newcastle), Mathew Campbell (Bachelor of Electrical Engineering at University of Newcastle) and Avril Dunn
RAM Manufacturing

RAM Manufacturing are redesigning the way carpet layers work and making their jobs easier, quicker, and more cost effective in the process. This University of Newcastle student duo have received thousands of EOIs for their eco-friendly recycled plastic smoothedge which diverts thousands of tons of Australia's waste plastic into a functional and long-lasting product.
Founded by: Sam Osborne (Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering at University of Newcastle) & Ryan Muir (Bachelor of Business at University of Newcastle)
beeddbeedd are helping businesses grow by building trust, empowering the sales team, and creating opportunities for faster sales conversions. Their platform is embedded into the buyer journey, leveraging user reviews to help future customers make informed buying decisions. Founded by: Joe Maxymenko, Simon Madden and Mark Walker |
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| ThermalogWith food safety being paramount across many industries, Thermalog puts an end to guesswork and saves businesses 1000s of dollars on food and product waste. They have designed a bespoke wireless temperature monitoring and data management system which enables businesses to ensure the safety of their food products and massively minimises stock loss. Founded by: Abid Kahn (Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering (Honours) at University of Newcastle) |
BeeMoBeeMo’s mission is to generate a go-to platform that facilitates shared ownership and use of vehicles to help foster local mobility networks by providing tailored solutions for users. Through her research on empowering communities with equitable management of shared autonomous vehicles, University of Newcastle alumna Dr Tania Papasotiriou stumbled upon the idea of BeeMo. Founded by: Dr Tania Papasotiriou (PhD in Architecture at University of Newcastle) |
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| Water MonitorWater Monitor is a practical device designed to support better health outcomes for vulnerable people by helping to monitor fluid overload in patients with congestive heart failure. The venture is deep into a pilot study exploring its efficacy and potential to reduce the risk of re-hoispitalisation. Founded by: Heather Hocking |
We are incredibly proud to be working with each team, welcome to the community!
Want to join the I2N Accelerator cohort in 2024? Submit a short EOI to keep updated.
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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.





