This 4-month program is designed for start-ups that have validated their ideas and provides support to optimise their strategy, growth, and scaling.
You can participate in the program in-person only.
Venture Builder – August to November 2025
JCU Ideas Labs, Building D4/14-88 McGregor Rd, Smithfield QLD 4878 (successful participants will be offered a work desk as part of the program)
Varies, but the expectation is that participants will commit at least 2 full days a week to building their venture
The Impact10X Venture Builder is designed to help validated start-ups scale, refine their business models, and secure investment.
Through expert-led mentorship, strategic partnerships, and investor connections, participants gain the resources and guidance needed to accelerate growth.
This program is the next step for ventures that have demonstrated grit and feasibility and are ready to build a sustainable, scalable business.
Venture Foundation
We plug into your business like an elite commando team, quickly assessing where you’re strong and where you need support.
Scaling & Investor Readiness
With the gaps closed, we focus on multiplying your traction and getting you investment-ready.
Pitch & Gain Feedback
Now we help you find opportunities.
Beyond the Venture Builder Program...
Selected start-ups that have been funded or that require further development will be offered a working desk and continuous support at the JCU-In-Resident Founders Tenancy (inside the JCU Ideas Lab Building).
We’re looking for ambitious founders, innovators, and early-stage start-ups who:
If you’re serious about building a scalable, investment-ready venture, the Impact10X Venture Builder is your next step.
Answer a few key questions about your venture, team, and goals.
Our team assesses each application based on feasibility, and potential impact.
Selected applicants will be invited for an interview to discuss their vision and fit.
The most promising ventures are invited to join the program.
The 2025 venture builder is free thanks to our sponsors.
There Is No Application Fee.
Apply for Free Today!
This program is proudly supported by Advance Queensland, as part of the Regional Enablers Program.
The Venture Builder is designed for early-stage businesses that have already validated their idea, gained initial traction, and are ready to scale. You should have a working MVP, some early users or clients, and a clear understanding of your market.
Yes — solo founders are welcome. While having a co-founder or early team member is ideal, it’s not a requirement. We offer support through fractional executive talent and help connect founders with the right people to strengthen their team as the venture grows.
The program can only be attended in person at the JCU Ideas Lab in Cairns.
Expect to dedicate 2–4 full days per week to the program. This is an intensive, hands-on process designed to move your venture forward quickly.
Start-ups that show strong potential may be invited to join our JCU-In-Resident Founders Tenancy for continued support and workspace access. Others often continue working with partners or investors they met during the program.
We’re looking for founders who have moved past the idea stage — you should have some form of product, service, or MVP, and ideally a few paying customers or pilot users. You should also be able to show early signs of traction or interest from your target market.
While we don’t offer upfront funding, the program prepares you to secure investment through pitch refinement, connections with investors, and a final Investor Day event.
The fee covers program delivery, mentor time, access to expert sessions, workspace at JCU Ideas Lab (for in-person attendees), and inclusion in the final Investor Pitch event. There is no fee to apply to the Venture Builder.
You don’t need to be a seasoned entrepreneur, but some experience running your venture or working in the industry is highly recommended. This program is fast-paced and works best for founders who are already in execution mode.
We’re industry-agnostic but look for start-ups solving real problems in regional areas or high-impact industries like health, climate, education, agtech, and digital solutions.
Currently, the program is offered to businesses and founders with an established presence in Queensland, Australia.
Simply complete the application form on this page. We review applications based on product validation, team experience, traction, and alignment with the program’s goals. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview before final selection.