23 July 2021
Do you have an idea that could change the world for the better? A business that works to tackle social problems, improve communities, provide people with access to employment and training, or help the environment?
Applications for UniSA’s Venture Catalyst Social Enterprise program are now open to current students, staff and alumni-led teams, coordinated by the Innovation and Collaboration Centre (ICC) and supported by the Pank* family of Adelaide.
Successful applicants will receive a $10,000 stipend, a series of mentoring and group sessions, access to workspace in a modern co-working environment based within the ICC in Adelaide or Whyalla, access to a global pool of expert advisers, and more. Check out all that the program offers.
ICC Director Jasmine Vreugdenburg says the program will appeal to an increasing number of social enterprise innovators who are keen to change how society thinks, behaves, lives and does business.
“We are seeing an upward trend in founders who are innovating in areas that have purpose and societal impact,” Jasmine says.
“Thanks to the generosity of Adelaide’s Pank family, the ICC is excited to open applications for this year’s Social Enterprise program.”
2020 recipient of the Venture Catalyst Social Enterprise program, Katie Gloede from Sport Tech Learn, has already seen multiple benefits in her business after undertaking the program last year.
“Running Sport Tech Learn through UniSA’s Venture Catalyst Social Enterprise program at the Innovation & Collaboration Centre has allowed my business to grow and achieve our goal of changing the lives of children and their consideration of future careers in STEM,” says Katie.
Since completing the program, Katie has won the 2020 Winnovation Award for Maths & Data and secured a $6500 contract with the Adelaide City Council to pilot her Smart Soccer School Holiday program.
“I connected with invaluable industry partners, fellow startups who understood my journey, and a detailed educational program that taught me the practical skills to elevate Sport Teach Learn to the next level of our startup. I couldn’t have found this help anywhere else,” she says.
UniSA students, staff and alumni looking to take their social enterprise to the next level have until 29 August 2021 to apply for the program. More information available at Venture Catalyst Social Enterprise Program page.
*UniSA has many connections to the Pank family, who have generously contributed to the university since 1996, helping almost 200 students attain a tertiary education. Dr David Pank AM and his wife Margaret are passionate supporters of South Australia’s business and education sectors, including helping to foster social innovation and new ideas.
Media contact: Emma Dignon email emma.dignon@unisa.edu.au mobile: 0417 080 705
