Optus has introduced a new $300,000 funding program to support Australia’s social innovators.
Dubbed ‘the Optus Future Makers program, the initiative invites start-ups, social entrepreneurs and charities to submit their tech products and services, for a chance to secure a share of $300,000 in funding and the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s best talent to help bring their ideas to life.
John Paitaridis, Managing Director for Optus Business said: “Technology has proliferated [throughout] our lives – it’s changing the way we communicate, connect, learn and are entertained. It is vital that the most needy in our community are able to benefit from the advancements in technology in a way that supports their circumstances including finding employment, accessing health services and education.’
In addition to landing their share of the funding, successful applicants will be individually coached by experts from Optus and industry, while being exposed to real-world experience through the Future Makers accelerator program.
“The four-month accelerator program will allow each applicant to develop their skills through workshops and mentoring that focus on technology, customer experience, marketing strategies, project planning, financial modelling and importantly how to create a sustainable and successful enterprise,” added Paitaridis added.