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Take your idea to the next level with our ilab Accelerator program. 

ilab Accelerator runs for six-months each year and offers a $20,000 equity-free grant to each team. The program also includes workshops, mentoring, an Entrepreneur in Residence, partner deals, desk space and introductions to investors. We welcome startups from all disciplines – from robotics to social enterprises. 

Register now to join our online ilab Pitch Night on Wednesday 19 August

Video: ilab Accelerator founder, Ashley Baxter, talks about her experience with the program.

ilab Accelerator 2020 program will run from early January to July and will be broken down into three stages.

  • Stage 1. Startup Mobilisation
    This eight-week intensive phase will run between January and February.
  • Stage 2.  Startup Build
    This 17-week phase is adapted to the school semester and course requirements. It will run between March and June.
  • Stage 3. Startup Investment Readiness and Pitching
    This four-week intensive phase will run between June and July.

Throughout the program your team will have access to:

  • incubator space and amenities 
  • regular seminars supporting early-stage startups
  • mentors, our Entrepreneur in Residence and a network of professionals and potential investors
  • partnership benefits from Google, Microsoft, AWS, Hubspot, Matlab and more.

Each startup accepted into the program will receive $20,000 in equity-free grant funding. 

We are looking for passionate and committed founders who have validated their value proposition, an initial sustainable business model and a solution.

When you apply you will need to provide evidence of customer interviews, market research and business modelling. Having a minimum viable product is ideal, but is not required to join the program.  

At least half of your team members must be part of the UQ community by either being a:

  • current UQ student
  • recent alumni of UQ (10 years or less)
  • UQ staff member or researcher

Download ilab Accelerator 2020 program's terms and conditions

Participating in the Accelerator program is a full-time commitment. 

Founders are expected to participate in at least 90 per cent of the provided workshops and accountability sessions. Lower participation may result in the team losing their grant money and being removed from the program.

Applications are closed for the ilab Accelerator 2020. 

Application Process

Spots in the Accelerator program are highly competitive. Founders must complete a three-stage application process to be accepted into the program. 

  • Stage 1. Online application and video
    You will be required to fill out an application outlining evidence of customer interviews, market research and business modelling. Your team will also be required to submit a short video outlining your product or service. Applications close Sunday 3 November 2019 (6pm). 
  • Stage 2.  Selection bootcamp
    Shortlisted candidates from Stage 1 will be invited to participate in a three-day selection bootcamp from 29 November – 1 December 2019. Founders will pitch their business to our selection committee of experienced entrepreneurs, mentors and judges. 
  • Stage 3. Successful startups notified
    The selection committee will decide on the final cohort based on Stage 2. Startups will be notified on Monday 9 December. Successful teams will be required to sign the ilab Accelerator Agreement prior to starting the program. 

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Download terms and conditions