Five tips for launching a startup during a pandemic

Rachael Dagge

28 September 2020

As UQ’s Chief Student Entreprenuer and successful founder, Rachael Dagge is no stranger to launching startups. She spoke with Contact Magazine to share her tips for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Rachael Dagge UQ Chief Student Entrepreneur — Rachael Dagge, UQ's Chief Student Entrepreneur

Ironically, times of uncertainty can bring clarity in terms of priorities and vision. For many, the past few months of reflection – or changes at work – have spurred long-standing ambitions to launch a startup or side hustle.

Launching a startup is all about timing. If you're considering taking the leap, here are some tips to get you started.

1. Test your assumptions. Use the time to get to know your customer and your market – you may think you know what people think and feel, but don’t try and create a problem to fit your solution. This is a huge mistake I see time and time again (and have done myself). Rather, it should be the other way around.

Read the full story on Contact Magazine

Author

Rachael Dagge

Rachael co-founded Spyke in 2020. The startup was inspired by tiny particles found on the wings of dragonflies, which have a powerful antibacterial quality that kills germs at first touch. Spyke aims to manufacture these ‘nano-spikes’ and apply to objects and surfaces in order to destroy bacteria upon contact. In addition to domestic applications, such as door knobs and bench tops, the team hopes to apply the technology to prosthetic limbs in order to curb infection rates in amputee patients.

On top of her role as UQ’s Chief Student Entreprenuer, Rachael has been accepted into a six-month fully funded program for women in STEM, SheCodes Plus, through BHP and Spacecubed. She has also secured a graduate role with KPMG’s health team, which she will balance with her startup ambitions.

Last updated:

28 September 2020