Australia is home to a vibrant and diverse tech start-up ecosystem, with over 2,000 start-ups operating across various sectors and domains. However, many of these start-ups face challenges in accessing capital, talent, and markets, especially in the early stages of their journey. To address this gap, a new program has been launched that aims to revolutionise the tech start-up ecosystem in Australia by providing early access to funding, mentorship, and resources.
Early Access Program: What is it and how does it work?
The Early Access Program (EAP) is a joint initiative by Stockhead, Australia’s leading news platform for emerging ASX-listed companies, and VentureCrowd, Australia’s largest online investment platform for start-ups and alternative assets. The EAP is designed to help tech start-ups raise capital from a network of sophisticated and accredited investors, while also gaining exposure and feedback from the Stockhead community of over 500,000 monthly readers.
The EAP works as follows:
- Tech start-ups can apply to the EAP by filling out a simple online form and submitting a pitch deck.
- The EAP team will review the applications and select the most promising start-ups to participate in the program.
- The selected start-ups will receive a $10,000 grant from Stockhead to create a video pitch and a landing page on the Stockhead website, showcasing their product, team, traction, and vision.
- The start-ups will also receive mentorship and guidance from the EAP team and industry experts, as well as access to exclusive events and webinars.
- The start-ups will then launch their crowdfunding campaigns on the VentureCrowd platform, where they can raise up to $1.6 million from a pool of over 50,000 investors.
- The start-ups will also benefit from the exposure and publicity generated by the Stockhead media coverage, which will help them attract more investors, customers, and partners.
Why is the EAP important for the tech start-up ecosystem?
The EAP is a game-changer for the tech start-up ecosystem in Australia, as it offers a unique opportunity for early-stage start-ups to access capital, mentorship, and resources that are otherwise scarce and difficult to obtain. The EAP also creates a win-win situation for both start-ups and investors, as it enables start-ups to validate their ideas and scale their businesses, while allowing investors to discover and support the next generation of tech innovators.
Some of the benefits of the EAP for the tech start-up ecosystem are:
- It lowers the barriers to entry for tech start-ups, as they can raise capital without giving up equity or control, and without having to go through lengthy and costly processes.
- It increases the diversity and inclusivity of the tech start-up ecosystem, as it opens up the opportunity for start-ups from different backgrounds, regions, and sectors to participate and succeed.
- It fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, as it connects start-ups with mentors, peers, and investors who can provide valuable feedback, advice, and support.
- It boosts the visibility and credibility of the tech start-up ecosystem, as it showcases the potential and impact of the Australian tech start-ups to the local and global audiences.
Which start-ups are eligible and how to apply?
The EAP is open to tech start-ups that meet the following criteria:
- They are based in Australia or have a significant presence or connection to Australia.
- They have a minimum viable product (MVP) or a prototype that demonstrates the functionality and value proposition of their solution.
- They have some traction or validation from the market, such as customers, users, revenue, or partnerships.
- They have a clear and compelling vision and strategy for their growth and scalability.
- They have a strong and committed team with relevant skills and experience.
To apply to the EAP, tech start-ups can visit the Stockhead website and fill out the online application form. The application deadline is December 31, 2023. The selected start-ups will be announced in January 2024 and will commence the program in February 2024.
The EAP is a rare and exciting opportunity for tech start-ups to accelerate their growth and success in the Australian tech start-up ecosystem. If you are a tech start-up founder or an investor looking for the next big thing, don’t miss this chance to be part of the EAP and join the revolution.
