Deakin calls for startups to join new mentoring program at Manufutures

Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus-based startup hub, Manufutures, launched a new program for regional startups and entrepreneurs this week.

The three-tiered Accelerate program involves a 12-week workshop and mentoring program, followed by a six-month mentoring program, followed by “virtual or real-life tenancy” at Manufutures.

The six-month tier, Bootcamp, includes a $50,000 voucher contribution from the Victorian government.

Ignite, the first tier of the program, begins on April 26 for successful applicants.

“ManuFutures’ programs and services provide a doorway to Deakin’s advanced capabilities and equipment, as well as multidisciplinary business, law and technology expertise,” said Ross Mahon of Executive Director Deakin Research Innovations.

“We are the only facility of this type in Australia. There are many accelerators and incubators in the market but none that have university resources and a new multimillion dollar commercial precinct included.”

Mahon invited hopefuls from Ballarat, Bendigo, Warrnambool, Gippsland and Geelong to apply for the 12-week workshop and mentoring program.

“Bootcamp graduates will also have the opportunity to take up future virtual or real-life tenancies at ManuFutures in the Deakin Future Economy Precinct – working beside leading advanced manufacturers with access to research, business mentors, university students and graduates.”

Manufutures was officially opened in 2018 and is home to a collection of hardware startups, some but not all of which are Deakin spinouts. Current and former residents include BNNT Technology, Partington Advanced Engineering, FormFlow, Conflux Technology and Flaim Systems.

The Accelerate program is supported through $1 million in voucher funding through the Victorian government, which awarded Manufutures a $10 million grant last April to add a second building.

More information on Manufutures and the new Accelerate program can be found here.

Picture: Deakin University

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