InnovationACT

Researchers & academics
Youth & students
Innovators & entrepreneurs

Dip your toes into the world of entrepreneurship by learning to build and pitch your startup for a share of AU$10,000! This opportunity is open to students, researchers and staff at the Australian National University, University of Canberra, University of New South Wales Canberra, and Canberra Institute of Technology and Australian Catholic University.

InnovationACT

Now open for 2026

IACT Pitch Night 2025

IACT Pitch Night 2025

IACT Pitch Night 2025

IACT Pitch Night 2025

InnovationACT 2026 will be held in August - registration to open soon.

Got an idea that could potentially change the world? Want to explore what entrepreneurship is all about? Form a team, work on a bold startup idea over 2 weeks and pitch for a share of $10000 grant pool and in-kind support from our ecosystem.

Why you should apply?

Program Outcomes

Get practical advice for your business

Get support focused on your business, not generic examples or broad theory. The advice is shaped around real challenges and practical next steps.

Cut through tech overwhelm

If you know things need improving but do not know where to start, this program helps you focus on what matters most. It makes digital decisions clearer and more manageable.

Easier day-to-tdat operations

Get help improving the tools, systems, and workflows your business relies on every day. That can mean less manual work, less admin, and smoother operations.

Better software and systems

Learn how to get more from your business software and digital tools. The goal is to make your systems more efficient and easier to use.

Stronger cybersecurity

Take practical steps to better protect your devices, accounts, and customer data. The focus is on simple habits that reduce risk.

A stronger online presence

Get support with social media, digital marketing, and online visibility in a way that suits your business. The advice is practical, not one-size-fits-all.

Useful AI support

Understand where AI may genuinely save time or improve the way you work. The focus is on practical use, not hype.

Workshops you can apply

These workshops are designed to help you apply what you learn to your own business. Combined with one-on-one support, they help turn ideas into action.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have questions feel free to reach out.

Register here!Contact us

Yes you can participate as an individual. But competition prizes will only be available to teams with 2-5 members.

Testimonials

The voices of our community

Hear from people who've been a part of this

This program gave me practical experience, skills and confidence I can apply directly to my work. The trainers were supportive, the sessions were engaging and the resources were top notch. Overall, a great workshop.

IACT, 2025 Participant

Events

Upcoming events in the ACT innovation ecosystem

Whether InnovationACT is on or it is the off season, there are multiple events in the innovation ecosystem where students and researchers can engage and connect.

Youth & students

InnovationACT

  • 10 August 2026
  • 11:00pm - 7:00am
    Level 5, 1 Moore Street, ACT
Innovators & entrepreneurs

ACET Workshop 4: Circular Economy

  • 11 August 2026
  • 10:00pm - 2:00am
    UNSW Canberra City Campus, Building J, 37 Constitution Avenue Reid, ACT 2612
Innovators & entrepreneurs

The Canberra Young Entrepreneur Sprint Workshop 1

  • 2 June 2026
  • 5:30am - 8:30am
    Level 5, 1 Moore Street, ACT
Innovators & entrepreneurs

Idea to Impact: Funding & Investor Pitching

  • 24 June 2026
  • 2:00am - 5:30am
    Level 4, Canberra Innovation Network