LaunchVic receives $2.9m for start-up skills boost

Thousands of Victorian start-up companies will receive a financial boost through the state’s start-up agency, LaunchVic.

The Victorian Government will invest $2.9 million through the agency in educating up to 2000 Victorian start-up founders and their staff.

Sixteen service providers have been selected to run the education programs, which will vary in length and format. They will include short courses, intensive three-day workshops, week-long courses, mentoring and online learning. The courses are either free or low-cost.

Topics include export and growth skills, corporate governance, investment support, marketing support, personal leadership and development and engaging corporates.

“With this targeted funding and support, there’s never been a better time to establish a start-up in Victoria,” said Minister for Innovation and the Digital Economy Philip Dalidakis.

“By building a stronger start-up sector we create innovative businesses, attract international talent, bring money into the local economy and create local jobs.”

It is estimated that just 15% of start-ups in Victoria go through an accelerator program, with many start-ups believing they are either not ready or have moved beyond needing intensive support. These programs will help fill this gap.

“Supporting early-stage start-ups is essential if we are to grow a strong pipeline of innovative businesses from Victoria that will fuel the local economy,” said LaunchVic CEO Dr Kate Cornick.

To date, LaunchVic has funded a total of 46 projects through its grants program. More information about founder education services can be found at launchvic.org.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/goir

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