Hide message
A new accelerator program promises to shake up the energy market.
The program invites startups from around the globe to enter their ideas on better energy use, energy independence as well as digitisation and analytics for the opportunity to take part in a 13 week accelerator program that will fast track their development by up to 18 months.
The program is a partnership between one of Australia’s leading energy retailers, EnergyAustralia and established London-based accelerator Startupbootcamp.
EnergyAustralia NextGen Executive, Andrew Perry, said the accelerator program is an opportunity to unearth fresh thinking and bring innovative ideas to market.
“How often have we seen great ideas born in someone's workshop or garage? The accelerator program is about making those great ideas real and developing the next innovation that helps customers use energy in ways that save them money and help the environment,” said Mr Perry.
“In this rapidly changing sector we want to continue meeting the energy needs of our customers and that requires foresight and agility. We know there are startups out there that can really disrupt the sector, they just need support to get off the ground.”
A three month recruitment callout for tomorrow’s innovative energy ideas will be made internationally, with up to 10 startups selected and invited to Melbourne to participate in the program.
Startupbootcamp Co-Founder, Ruud Hendriks said the company was dedicated to building strong networks in which startups, corporates, investors, mentors and government organisations work together for the benefit of Australian energy consumers.
“Startupbootcamp will be recruiting startup businesses globally to come to Melbourne for this program; we’re convinced that with EnergyAustralia as the founding partner, this program will become a huge success,” said Mr Hendriks
Mr Perry said the startups will be mentored, coached and advised by industry experts and entrepreneurs, after which they will be required to pitch their technology, service or business model to the program’s partners, investors and other interested stakeholders including government and energy retailers.
“By bringing the best and brightest minds to Melbourne instead of seeking them out in Silicon Valley, we’re building on this city’s reputation as an innovation hub,” said Mr Perry.
“Success means delivering reliable, affordable and cleaner energy for all Australians. We're looking for the next wave of innovative ideas to make that happen, whether it be us that picks it up or someone else.”
EnergyAustralia has committed to be the major partner for the program for three consecutive years. Other partners include Spotless Group, LaunchVic, DiUS, Amazon Web Services, Cisco and KHQ Lawyers.
For more information visit www.startupbootcamp.org/accelerator/energy-australia/
