It starts with a spark – a late-night idea typed in your notes app, a problem you keep encountering that no one seems to be solving, or a research insight that could change the game. If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should build this,” maybe that someone is you!
La Trobe University’s LaunchPad Pre-Accelerator Program is here to help you take that idea and turn it into something real. And the next intake opens Monday, 20 October 2025.
Meet LaunchPad: your startup springboard
Imagine spending 12 weeks immersed in a community of innovators, guided by Australia’s top startup minds. That’s LaunchPad, a hands-on, high-energy program designed to help La Trobe students, alumni and the general community build technology-led startups from scratch.
You’ll work alongside mentors from Startmate, one of Australia’s most respected accelerators, and tap into La Trobe’s own network of experts, founders, and industry leaders. It’s not just theory, it’s real-world startup building.
What will you do?
Over the course of the program, you’ll:
- Validate your idea through customer interviews and market research
- Build your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) — the first version of your solution
- Craft your pitch and learn how to speak to investors
- Explore business models, team building, and company formation
- Connect with mentors, legal and finance experts, and fellow founders
Whether you’re still shaping your idea or ready to take it to market, LaunchPad meets you where you are and helps you grow fast.
Who is it for?
If you’re a:
- Current student (undergrad, postgrad, PhD)
- Academic or researcher
- La Trobe alum
- Community member
… and you’ve got a tech-driven idea or a passion for solving problems, this program is for you.
The cost
The program is heavily subsidised by LaunchVic, so your cost is just $200 AUD.
Key dates
- Applications open: Monday 20 October 2025
- Applications close: Thursday 12 December 2025
- Program starts: Monday 23 March 2026
- Program finish: Friday 19 June 2026
Ready to launch?
Your idea deserves a chance. Apply now and take the first step toward building something extraordinary.