Australian first program champions new entrepreneurs

A search engine for finding bargains, wheelchair mounted robot arms for people with quadriplegia and an electronic portable device that allows easy matching of paint colours, are just some of the projects that are being translated from ideas to reality through a new entrepreneurial program at the University of Melbourne. The Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP), the first program of its kind in Australia, builds on innovative ideas that are sparked by passion and interest. The University's Melbourne School of Engineering (MSE), which is hosting the program with the support of the Faculty of Business and Economics, joins only a handful of leading institutions globally providing an entrepreneurial program to students, staff and alumni. MAP aims to help entrepreneurs across the University of Melbourne community maximise their chances of success through access to resources and mentoring. It also aims to accelerate the progress of participants' start-ups and create a culture of entrepreneurship at the University. Rohan Workman, Manager of MAP said the program would help translate ideas into practice and increase opportunities for staff, students and alumni to develop successful entrepreneurial careers. "By supporting these budding entrepreneurs and providing office space, funding, and mentoring, our students, academics and alumni gain phenomenal exposure to a range of experts who can guide, advise and support them through the journey of innovation.