Applications for the Luminate Program are now closed

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Plan for startup success

Embarking on your startup journey is exciting, yet we understand getting the support you need to scale your business can be tough. 

Introducing the Swinburne Luminate Program! In just seven weeks, we equip you for startup success with a dynamic blend of weekly business building and planning workshops.

This includes crafting a well-validated problem statement, creating a business model canvas, designing prototype plans, initiating early MVP development, formulating a marketing strategy, and outlining a legal framework plan.  

Unlock your potential

You'll also gain access to networking opportunities, mentoring from experts, and coaching to develop a compelling business pitch. At the end of the program, you will have the opportunity to pitch your startup to a live audience for the chance to win cash prizes!

Pitch Night prizes* include:  

  • A$2,500 for the winner  
  • A$1,000 each for two runners-up  
  • A$500 for the best pitch  

*Conditions apply.

Key benefits of the Initiate Program

Personalised approach

Not all startups or founders are the same – limited number of participants ensures you're not just another number

Weekly workshops

Topics include validated problem statement, business model canvas, prototype design, early MVP wireframe, KPI strategy, and legal structure.

Guest speakers and networking opportunities

Connect with like-minded individuals, gain mentorship and guidance from startup founders with knowledge and experience

Pitch coaching sessions

Access to expert coaches to help you create, refine and deliver a compelling pitch to a live audience at the end of the program

Luminate Program 2023 highlights

Swinburne Luminate Program 2023 Highlights
View video transcript [PDF 110KB]

Not sure if the Luminate Program is for you?  

The Luminate Program is designed for Swinburne University of Technology students, staff and alumni with a startup in its early stages or heading towards the MVP or prototype stage.

If you're still undecided, email us at innovationstudio@swinburne.edu.au for more information. Throughout the year, we offer a diverse range of programs tailored to support founders at all stages of the entrepreneurial journey. 

Have questions about the Luminate Program?
Schedule a session with us

You can also schedule a 15-minute session with our team to discuss your application and goals for the program. Simply email us at innovationstudio@swinburne.edu.au to lock in a time.

Frequently asked questions

Activity Date
Info Night Wednesday 28 February 2024
Applications open Wednesday 28 February 2024
Applications close 11.59pm, Monday 11 March 2024
Program period Tuesday 9 April – Tuesday 21 May 2024
Pitch Night Tuesday 21 May 2024

The Luminate Program is held in person only at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus. No online or remote options are available.

A maximum of 15 startup teams or individuals will be accepted into the Luminate Program.

Yes, we encourage solo founders to apply for the Luminate Program.

Yes, you can participate in the Luminate Program if your startup has already taken investment. We would love to have you apply for our program.

To be eligible for the Luminate Program, we request a brief video introducing yourself and your startup. Please keep the video under three minutes featuring your face.

It should be a straightforward presentation without any additional props, slides or editing effects. The focus should be on clear communication of your passion for the idea and the potential of your startup. If you have multiple founders, the presentation can be given by an individual founder.

Step 1. Record a video covering the following items.

Item Explanation
Introduction Start by introducing yourselves and your startup.
Problem Statement

Clearly articulate the problem or pain point that your startup aims to address

Describe why the problem is significant and whom it impacts

Solution Overview

Present your startup idea or product solution

Explain how it addresses the identified problem and the unique value proposition it offers

Market Opportunity Discuss the market opportunity for your solution
Customer Validation Share any evidence of customer validation or feedback you have received so far
Business Model

Outline your business model and revenue strategy

Explain how your startup plans to make money

Your Ask Briefly outline what you hope to achieve through participation in the program

Step 2. Upload your video to Vimeo or YouTube.

Step 3. Set your video privacy settings to "public".

Step 4. Paste the video URL in the application form.

Explore more of our programs

Want to know more?

If you have any questions, need more information or you're wondering how Swinburne Innovation Studio can help turn your big idea into a real thing, contact us via email at innovationstudio@swinburne.edu.au.

Contact us now