Build Real Companies Through Structured Learning
Our venture building program combines practical experience with mentorship from operators who've built and scaled businesses. You'll work on actual ventures while developing skills that matter in the Australian startup ecosystem.
Program Structure
Twelve Months of Building
We've structured this around the real rhythm of starting a company. Each phase builds on what came before, but there's flexibility based on what your venture needs.
Months 1-3
Discovery and Validation
Start by identifying problems worth solving. You'll talk to potential customers, test assumptions, and learn what markets actually need rather than what you think they want.
Months 4-6
Building Your First Version
Create something people can actually use. Work with technical mentors to scope realistically and ship quickly. Learn when to build and when to improvise.
Months 7-9
Early Traction
Get your first customers and figure out what's working. Refine your positioning, test different channels, and start building processes that can scale beyond just you.
Months 10-12
Preparing for Growth
Build the foundation for scaling. That might mean raising capital, hiring your first team member, or establishing partnerships. Every venture takes a different path here.
Learn from People Who've Actually Done It
Our mentors aren't career consultants. They're operators currently running businesses or who've successfully exited ventures. Most are based in Sydney and Melbourne, which means they understand the specific challenges of building in the Australian market.
You'll get matched with mentors based on your venture type and where you're at. Some specialize in technical architecture, others in sales strategy or fundraising. The relationship usually involves bi-weekly sessions plus ad-hoc support when you're facing specific challenges.
Mentorship isn't about having all the answers handed to you. It's about learning to think through problems the way experienced builders do, and having someone who's been there when you hit inevitable roadblocks.
Callum Fitzwilliam
SaaS & Product Strategy
Tessa Blackwell
Growth & Operations
Ingrid Solberg
Fundraising & Finance
How We Actually Run This
The program combines structured learning with real-world building. You'll attend workshops, work independently on your venture, and meet regularly with mentors and other participants.
Weekly Workshops
Sessions run Tuesday evenings in Mosman. Topics range from customer discovery to cap table basics. Most workshops are practical working sessions rather than lectures.
Mentor Sessions
You'll meet with your assigned mentor every two weeks. Between sessions, most mentors are available via email for quick questions or urgent decisions that can't wait.
Peer Groups
Small groups of 4-5 participants meet weekly to share progress and challenges. These often become the most valuable part of the program since everyone's dealing with similar issues.
Monthly Reviews
Present your progress to the broader group once a month. This creates accountability and helps you practice explaining your venture clearly, which you'll need for customers and investors.
Resource Access
Access to tools, templates, and connections we've built over years. This includes legal templates, financial models, and introductions to service providers who understand early-stage ventures.
Demo Day
At the end of twelve months, present to investors, potential customers, and the broader startup community. This isn't guaranteed funding, but it's a genuine opportunity to get in front of people who can help.