Types of grants for program providers

Grants for pre-accelerator programs

Pre-accelerator programs are targeted at startup entrepreneurs who have a technology-based idea for a startup and want to establish a business and develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The program runs for a designated period, and participants ‘graduate’ from the program having followed a set methodology to establish a startup. A Pre-Accelerator program can provide a pathway to an Accelerator program.

Grants for accelerator programs

Accelerator programs are targeted at established Startups who want to scale their business. They are typically fixed-term, cohort-based programs, but may also be delivered in the style of an incubator that accepts startups on an ad-hoc basis. Accelerators (and incubators) are competitive – entry is by way of an application process – and successful startups can expect to receive mentorship and/or education, and introductions to customers and early-stage investors including through a public pitch event or demo day.

Open Grants for Program Providers

Grants for AI and DeepTech Programs

Up to $400,000 for pre-accelerator programs supporting aspiring founders working on AI and DeepTech startups.

Unsolicited Proposals

LaunchVic may in rare circumstances accept unsolicited proposals for grant funding outside of its published grant rounds or re-funding of high-performing programs. Please see here for programs previously funded.

While we don’t fund startups directly through these proposals, the programs we support are designed to help early-stage and scaling startups succeed.

We endeavour to review unsolicited proposals quarterly; however, LaunchVic is under no obligation to do so or provide feedback.

Proposal Assessment Criteria 

All unsolicited proposals must demonstrate strong alignment with the following principles:

  • Uniqueness – The applicant is uniquely positioned to deliver the program. i.e. there is no other organisation that could do what you are proposing.
  • Expertise – The applicant demonstrates the professional expertise and capability to deliver a successful outcome with minimal risk.
  • Impact – The proposal responds to a genuine need and will deliver tangible benefits to the Victorian startup ecosystem.
  • Need for funding – There is a credible and compelling case for LaunchVic investment.
  • Value for money – The proposal represents a sound return on investment for the Victorian startup ecosystem.
  • Sustainability – The program includes a clear pathway to sustainability—either by becoming self-sufficient or by strengthening ecosystem resilience.

Proposals that do not meet all of these criteria will not be reviewed.

If your proposal is deemed appropriate for funding, it will be subject to further assessment and due diligence in line with LaunchVic’s established grant processes.

If you have a question regarding LaunchVic funding, send us an enquiry.

Professional Development

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Networking opportunities

Connect with fellow program managers and join Victoria’s vibrant startup community.

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Find Program Participants

Dealroom Victoria provides accelerator programs with a central place to find startups that may be suitable for your program.

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