RMIT Activator | Powered by Global Power Generation
Empowering local regional entrepreneurs to solve regional challenges for a sustainable future
Empowering local regional entrepreneurs to solve regional challenges for a sustainable future
Connect with fellow business owners, mentors, and changemakers who understand the unique challenges of regional Victoria. This program is designed for regional tourism operators, event management companies, creative professionals, cultural institutions, hospitality businesses, and tech startups focused on:
You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Join a supportive community that's committed to helping your business grow, at no cost to you. The program is free for participants and offers the chance to connect with expert advisors, expand your network, and pitch your idea for a share of the $10,000 prize pool. This 10-week program is specifically designed to create jobs, opportunities, and a stronger regional economy.
Applications for our second cohort, focusing on Tourism, Creativity and Events has now closed.
However, if your business is better suited to a different area, we will also offer upcoming cohorts in 2026:
If you're interested in these future cohorts, please register your interest below.
We're looking for innovative applicants who have demonstrated commercial potential, with early customers or pilot agreements in place to test your idea in the real world. You may not be ready for a big expansion yet, but this is a great opportunity to team up with the right partners who can help turn your idea into something bigger.
We welcome businesses that are based in, serve customers in, or source supplies from the vibrant region stretching from Warrnambool to Ballarat, Geelong, and along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.
This opportunity is perfect for:
Every successful business starts somewhere. This program gives you the tools, support, and confidence to take the next step. If you're ready to test and grow your business idea in your local community, we want to hear from you!
RMIT Activator has partnered with Berrybank Development Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Global Power Generation (GPG), the international power generation arm of Naturgy Energy Group, a leading energy company in Spain and Latin America.
Together, we’re launching the Regional Innovation Accelerator Program to drive positive change and innovation in local communities. This initiative is part of Berrybank Windfarm’s broader Community Engagement Benefit Sharing Plan (CEBSP), which focuses on delivering sustainable benefits and fostering strong connections with the communities surrounding their wind farms.
Applications now closed
Accepting applications in 2026
That's okay! This is the second of four cohorts we've got planned over the next two years. The focus of this cohort is Tourism, Creativity & Events, However, if this focus doesn’t align with your business needs, we also offer other cohorts that will focus on key areas such as Regenerative Agriculture, Land Solutions and Renewable Energy.
If now's not the right time or the focus isn't quite right for your business, let us know you're keen, and we'll keep you in the loop about future opportunities. Just register your interest with the form below and we'll reach out for future cohorts.
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
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