AI Innovation Ventures Program
Explore a world of new AI solutions, get real-world industry experience and gain credit points towards your degree.
The AI Innovation Ventures Program invites ambitious undergraduate and postgraduate La Trobe University students to explore the frontier of AI and entrepreneurship.
Work in teams to develop AI-driven solutions, test ideas with industry experts, build prototypes and pitch your venture to innovation leaders for the chance to win up to $3,000 AUD while also receiving 60 credit points towards your La Trobe University degree.
The program combines academic learning with real industry engagement, helping students build the mindset, skills and networks to turn ideas into ventures.
The AI and Tech Innovation Frontier subject is 80% industry-delivered, offering hands-on exposure to real innovation challenges.
Program overview
Commences Semester 2, 2026, from Tuesday 7 July to Tuesday 13 October 2026
Open to La Trobe University students only.
Undergraduate students can take the subject as a second or third-year elective, while postgraduate students may complete it through the IBL stream.
Students may also enrol in the subject as a standalone 30 credit-point option.
AI and Tech Innovation Frontier (Semester 2 - 2026)
Undergraduate subject code: CSE2003
Postgraduate subject code: CSE5015
Immersion in La Trobe Incubator Program (IBL) (Semester 1 - 2027)
Undergraduate subject code: CSE3ILA
Postgraduate subject code: CSE5IBL
Students may also enrol in the subject as a standalone 30 credit-point option.
Applications are now open and will close on Sunday 31 May 2026 for Semester 2, 2026. 30 spots available.
Program structure
La Trobe’s structured, multi stage program takes students on a hands on creative journey from initial problem identification to a defined product framework. Students will work in teams of two to three, progressing through five interconnected stages building entrepreneurial capability step by step.
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Ideation | Two-Day Bootcamp
- 12 hours of interactive workshops.
- Explore real-world problems and generate ideas.
- Pitch to ecosystem leaders to advance to Market Validation.
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Market Validation | Weeks 1 to 4
- Four x two-hour industry-led workshops
- Customer discovery and product–market fit
- Weekly mentoring and 30-minute progress check-ins
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Prototyping | Weeks 5 to 8
- Two x Four-hour hands-on workshops
- Build and test a prototype framework
- Weekly check-ins and 1-hour industry mentoring per team
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The Road Forward | Weeks 9 to 10
- Market entry strategies and cross-border validation
- Legal and finance fundamentals. Pitching to international audiences.
- Two x two-hour workshops and weekly check-ins
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Final Pitch | Weeks 11 to 12
- Two × Two-hour hands-on workshops to refine your pitch
- Present to industry and venture capital panels
- Compete for up to $3,000 AUD in prizes
Why participate?
Built around key pillars, the program offers a comprehensive entrepreneurial experience with strong industry collaboration.
Expert mentoring and coaching
One-to-one mentoring, industry connections, and weekly progress support.
Connections and ecosystem access
Access to Victoria’s startup ecosystem, alumni network, and the Ignite Innovation Community platform.
AI product development
Collaborate with La Trobe experts and access specialised AI development support and Digital Innovation Hub resources.
More information
For further details, connect with:
Shannon Ryan
Program Manager, Innovation & Entrepreneurship
La Trobe University
E: shannon.ryan@latrobe.edu.au
M: 0438 401 257
