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Programs

Stack+ Founders Program

Stack+ (2)

Join Stack+

Are you a passionate female from regional Queensland with an early-stage STEM idea or prototype?

The FULLY FUNDED Stack+ Program is here to help you grow your idea, build valuable networks, and develop essential business acumen.

We’re seeking 30 passionate, driven women with innovations in in areas like technology, Energy, cybersecurity, mining, resources, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, FoodTech, scientific research, sustainability, disaster resilience or any other innovation transforming business and industry.

It doesn't matter if you're a university student, working in industry, or developing your idea on a farm or in community—we want to uncover Queensland’s next innovators.

Whether your concept is fully formed or just an exciting spark, the Stack+ Program provides the tools, mentorship, and support to help you thrive.

Ready to grow, collaborate, and scale your impact? Submit an expression of interest today to take the first step on your transformative journey

Applications Open Now - Closing 10 January 2025 or when positions are filled.

Stack Plus Imag (6)

This program is proudly supported by the Advance Queensland Advancing Female Founders initiative.

‘Proudly supported by the Advance Queensland initiative.’

The best way to create the future is to take the biggest step you can and just keep going

Melanie Perkins, Founder Canva

Program Information

At the heart of Stack+ is the idea of transdisciplinary innovation and collaboration. The program fosters a vibrant, supportive community where you'll connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and industry leaders, paving the way for long-term success.

The "Stack" concept is all about combining the right technologies and skills to create a complete, streamlined solution. In the Stack+ Program, you’ll build on your existing STEM or tech knowledge through a carefully crafted stack of essential learning, development, and application. This approach is key to driving the growth and success of a resilient, sustainable innovation-driven business.

The program worth $9600.00 is FULLY funded by the Queensland Government and includes a delegation trip and graduation in Brisbane. 

 

Stack Plus Imag (2)
  • Personalised Goal Setting: Receive tailored guidance from dedicated mentors to keep you on track and help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals.
  • Fortnightly Interactive Group Sessions: Participate in virtual sessions where you’ll learn from inspiring guest speakers, collaborate, and share ideas with fellow participants.
  • Monthly Stacks and Challenges: Each month, dive into a new stack theme with online learning and practical business challenges, designed to build your skills and apply directly to your business idea.
  • Build a Tribe: Form lasting connections with like-minded peers, mentors, guest speakers, and industry experts. You’ll be paired with a supportive peer for regular check-ins, accountability, and shared growth.
  • Concierge to Support Networks: We’ll help you tap into the right support networks, connect with industry leaders, and access additional resources tailored to your business needs.
  • Ecosystem Tour and Graduation:  Celebrate your achievements with a graduation event and explore key ecosystem enablers and stakeholders who can help you take your next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't have it all figured out.

You are in the right place! The whole idea of this program is to help you build and develop your idea. You never know - your path may end up looking very different to where you first thought it would.

I don't know if my idea fits

If you think you have an innovative idea or prototype we encourage you to apply. If you would like further information or to ask any questions please reach out to us on hello@australianimpactgroup.com

What date will the program commence

The program will commence on 3rd February 2025

How many participants are supported

There are 30 Places. If you apply and you do not meet the criteria for this program we will provide an introduction to one of the other Programs under the Backing Female Founders Program. It is our intention to ensure that every female founder that meets the criteria of the Backing Female Founders Initiative is connected into the most appropriate program for them. 

What is the cost to participate.

This program is predominantly funded through the Advance Queensland Backing Female Founders Program to the value of over 9,900. 
Travel costs towards graduation event and onboarding event for successful participants is substantially subsidised.

How and when will applications be evaluated.

An initial evaluation of applicants and short list will be undertaken on 1st November. A Second Short List will be undertaken on 15 January or when places are exhausted. 

Priorities will be provided towards: 

Priority 1

  • STEM focussed early stage ideas and prototypes. 

Priority 2

  • Female Founders between 18-25 who have strong 
  • Based in Regional or remote Queensland 
  • First Nations Female Founders 
  • Female Founders from Migrant backgrounds

If you do not meet all of these requirements of Priority 2 but do meet Priority 1 requirements and are based in Queensland we will encourage you to apply.

 

What are my commitments
  • Face to Face Onboarding and connections in Brisbane 
  • Monthly One to One Mentoring Session 
  • 1 x monthly 2 hour strategy Team Session
  • 1 x monthly  2 hour subject matter experts presentations 
  • Online Training Modules  - Short Weekly Tasks and Thematic projects working on your business model.
What are some examples of participants and Ideas

 

 

 

Program Stacks

Founder Mindset

Begin with a deep dive into your behavioural styles using tools like the Extended DISC Assessment. This stack enhances self-awareness and helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and key motivators, setting a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.

Tribe Building

Build and nurture a strong community of customers, partners, and employees. Learn strategies for effective communication, stakeholder engagement, and community building.

Innovation Strategies

Learn to craft robust business strategies and foster a culture of innovation. This stack covers strategic planning, business model development, and innovation management to ensure sustainable business growth.

Engage your Customers

Enhance your understanding of market dynamics and customer engagement strategies. This stack focuses on market analysis, customer segmentation, and developing compelling value propositions.

Managing Money 

Master financial management, funding and grant strategies. Learn budgeting, financial forecasting, and how to secure funding to fuel business operations and growth.

Managing Risk

Establish sound compliance structures and manage risks effectively. This stack provides insights into legal compliance, risk management, and corporate governance essentials.

Execute Efficiency

Streamline operations with efficient systems and processes. Focus on process optimisation, technology integration, and quality management to boost productivity and operational excellence. 

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Leading and Inspire

Strengthen leadership skills to effectively manage teams and projects. Gain insights into strategic leadership, conflict resolution, and motivational techniques to lead with confidence and integrity.

Cultivating Culture

Develop a dynamic and positive organisational culture that fosters talent and innovation. Understand how to attract, develop, and retain top talent while fostering a collaborative and innovative work environmen

Graduate and Celebrate

Conclude your program with an in person graduation at the Precinct in Brisbane and a ecosystem tour of key places, people and spaces that can support you on your continued journey.

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Scaling for Growth

Prepare for business growth with strategies focused on scaling operations and accelerating business expansion. This stack helps you plan and execute growth strategies effectively.

Reflecting and Resetting

Engage in reflective practice and strategic reassessment to realign with evolving business goals. This stack provides tools for ongoing evaluation and recalibration of strategies to ensure long-term success.

Book a Free Consultation

Interested in working together? We'de love to hear from you!