ACRE and SecondMuse developed the Breakout Accelerator concept to help unearth, connect and support rural innovators who are striving to build and scale dynamic, creative and sustainable businesses in places and communities they love.
From November 2019-June 2020, ten Innovators will be supported and encouraged to tackle challenges, build know-how and access new markets, including developing capabilities required to achieve commercial success in international markets.
A key point of difference with this dedicated rural accelerator program is that we’re not asking innovators to leave home behind as they build their business.
This refreshing approach tapped into an emerging rural innovation mindset, with some 43 diverse and vibrant businesses from southern NSW and rural Victoria applying to join the Breakout Accelerator.
In response, ACRE and SecondMuse conducted a rigorous review, shortlisting, interview and selection process. This included convening an independent panel with expertise in regional, national and international business, coaching and start-up development who carefully reviewed and assessed applications according to the selection criteria for the program.
Look who we unearthed!
ACRE and SecondMuse are delighted to announce and introduce the Innovators who will join the Breakout Accelerator.
We look forward to matching the needs and supporting the goals of these Innovators by finding and bringing national and international networks, experience and expertise to the doorstep of each business, commencing with an immersive forum and networking opportunity at the Old Beechworth Gaol in late November 2019.
A Lasting Tale founded by Dimity Brassil. Helps people to capture and create audio life stories of their loved elderly. The business enables people to create audio stories simply and in one central place, while ensuring the voices of the elderly are collectively and universally heard.
Cobram Harvest co-founded by John and Nick Mantovani. A new dried fruit processing venture is helping to diversify and add value to an existing business, while also addressing significant waste issues in the horticulture sector.
Indigo Power co-founded by Matthew Grogan. As a once-in-a-generation change in the electricity sector is occurring, this community-owned renewable energy retailer is positioning itself to ensure that rural communities do not miss out on the spoils.
Issimo Markets co-founded by Jay Cooper, Nick Cooper and Veronica Ridge. A mobile-friendly platform allows stallholders and food trucks to discover and book markets in just minutes.
Luggarrah founded by David Parkin. By offering hands-on exposure to game developers and visual effects technology, Luggarrah is opening up new career horizons for remote and disadvantaged students and encouraging cultures to share stories with the broader community.
Manufacturing Mate co-founded by Sidney Duncan-Steele. Uses cloud-based technology to connect people with steel manufacturing ideas, to people that can use computer-aided design to people with manufacturing machines, effectively bringing manufacturing to life.
Pointer Remote Roles founded by Jo Palmer. An online job-matching platform that connects businesses with talented professionals, to fill positions within their organisation that can be worked remotely, from anywhere in Australia, be it from home or a co-working space.
Prick ‘n A Pint founded by Guy Wilkinson. A unique men’s health program that involves simple collection of a baseline blood test in a familiar, non-clinical environment – the pub!
Sailors Grave co-founded by Gab and Chris Moore. An East Gippsland brewery is establishing a micro-malting facility to produce specialty and base malts from locally sourced ingredients and generate opportunities in a community facing economic decline.
Shingleback Off Road co-founded by Andrew and Kimberley Taylor. Using lived experience and design to develop products that help bridge the gap between time-poor families and the great outdoors. Encouraging people to explore mountain biking, a growing tourism activity in North East Victoria and beyond.