What do you do when the situation suddenly changes, and circumstances out of your control demand a change of course?
Pivot!
And so, true to form, this year’s Plus Eight Accelerator had to turn on a dime, once the Israel mission they were supposed to be on last week, with Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson, was (understandably) cancelled.
Instead, the group travelled to London for a week-long international immersion trip.
London is an ideal launchpad for startups aiming to scale internationally, thanks to its vibrant mix of talent, innovation, and investment opportunities that have propelled it onto the global stage. The tech sector, valued at more than one trillion US dollars, is the third largest in the world.
The city’s thriving startup community, diverse pool of skilled professionals, and strong presence of venture capital firms also creates an ecosystem that fosters growth. London’s strategic location for accessing European markets, combined with its rich financial history and forward-thinking tech culture positions it as the prime destination for Australian startups looking to go global.
On October 23rd, the six startups who are part of Phase Two of the six-month Plus Eight program made their way to the fair city where throughout the week they were able to meet and create strong professional connections with international VC’s and investors. Those who were able to support and join the cohort on their trip include Kylie Gerrard, Kirsty Packer, Claire Toms, Brodie McCulloch, James Edwards, Tracie Clark and Svetlana Baltic.
Throughout the week, the founders had the opportunity to pitch to Octopus Ventures, and engage in insightful sessions at Oury Clark, DUG, Propel, SecondHome, Australia-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce and more.
These sessions focussed on how the founders can successfully scale globally and maintain long-term growth, through the sharing of key insights, personal experience and discussing the various government incentives available for Australian startups looking to scale into the United Kingdom.
By the end of the week, the cohort had successfully been able to make meaningful professional connections that will aid their business growth and development.
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Plus Eight Accelerator is made possible thanks to the support of program partners, BetterLabs, Woodside Energy, Capricorn Society, adapt, VICI Ventures, a Visagio Company, Hawaiian, Jackson McDonald and DFK Gooding Partners.
The Plus Eight cohort will be showcasing their businesses at the West Tech Fest Plus Eight Demo Day on Tues 5 Dec, the event is free.
