A program aimed at assisting regional entrepreneurs and supported by Charles Sturt University has received almost a quarter of a million dollars in funding.

Startup Shakeup is a network of entrepreneurs, businesses and investors striving to turn big ideas into jobs and opportunities for growth in north-east Victoria.

The program is a collaboration between five councils - Benalla, Indigo, Mansfield, Alpine and Wangaratta - in partnership with Charles Sturt, Goulburn Ovens TAFE and NE Tracks LLEN.

Manager of Charles Sturt’s Wangaratta Regional Study Centre, Mrs Ilena Young, said the $246,000 would be used to build a regional innovation eco-system, with masterclasses and ‘tech taster’ workshops to support and inspire entrepreneurship.

“We know regional innovators often don’t have the connections or community around them to give the confidence to take their idea the next step,” she said.

“This funding enables us to support them and give them the skills and confidence to succeed.”

A pre-accelerator program will support 40 entrepreneurs, with four programs run over two years. Successful applicants will go through an approval process, and have access to mentors and business coaches, creative co-working spaces and prototyping facilities.

The program will be delivered online with a local facilitator, making it accessible for all regional Victorians.

 “This investment will enable the next generation of regional entrepreneurs to have a go at getting their big idea off the ground.” said Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy, The Hon Jaala Pulford.

Since 2018, Startup Shakeup has worked with over 34 start-ups, whose projected turnover in 2020 was just under $1 million, employing 50 staff.

Further information is available at the Startup Shakeup website.