Chris Kirk, the Chief Executive Officer of Stone & Chalk, will step down from his role on April 10, 2026, after a transformative decade with Australia's largest innovation community. The departure is part of a planned transition, initiated while the organization is in a strong strategic and financial position. Kirk will remain involved during the transition period to ensure stability and continuity for the thriving startup ecosystem he helped build.
From Inception to National Impact
When Kirk joined the founding team in 2015, Stone & Chalk was an idea starting with 41 startups in a Sydney building slated for demolition. Over ten years, he oversaw its evolution into a national engine for entrepreneurship with hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. This expansion has been instrumental in fostering a connected innovation network across the country, supporting thousands of founders.
The impact of this growth is reflected in impressive metrics achieved under Kirk's leadership. The organization has supported over 3,000 Australian startups and scaleups, which have collectively raised more than $4.2 billion in capital. These ventures have been instrumental in creating over 50,000 jobs, highlighting Stone & Chalk's central role in driving Australia's economic prosperity.
Strategic Vision and Future Growth
A cornerstone of Kirk's recent strategy was forging strong partnerships with government and corporate entities. This culminated in the NSW Government selecting Stone & Chalk to operate the new 8,000 sqm Tech Central Innovation Hub in Sydney. This landmark project positions the organization at the heart of a key technology precinct, reinforcing its influence on the national stage.
The organization's foundation is solid, with a clear mission to support 10,000 Australian success stories over the next decade. This forward-looking strategy ensures that Stone & Chalk is well-prepared for its next phase of growth. The recognition from founders, who voted it the #1 Most Recommended Startup Support Organisation for two years, underscores its success.
A Deliberate Leadership Transition
Kirk emphasized that the timing for his departure was deliberate, stating, 'companies have seasons. I believe the best way to lead a company you love is to know exactly when to leave it.' This sentiment was echoed by the Board, which confirmed the transition was carefully planned to ensure seamless continuity. The search for a new CEO is already well advanced, with a shortlist of candidates confirmed.
Richard Kimber, Chair of Stone & Chalk, commended Kirk for his significant contributions and values-driven leadership. He noted that Kirk successfully built a stronger organization for founders, improving its financial strength to enable greater reinvestment in the community. The Board worked closely with Kirk to oversee the organization's strategy, ensuring stability through this change.
A Legacy of Community and Culture
Beyond the metrics, Kirk identified the organization's culture as his proudest achievement, describing it as a place where 'founders help founders by default.' He believes this collaborative spirit is the true legacy that will outlast any individual leader. This culture of generosity has become the heartbeat of the Stone & Chalk community across Australia.
As Chris Kirk prepares to depart, he leaves Stone & Chalk in an exceptionally strong position, poised for its next chapter. His decade of service has been defined by visionary expansion, strategic partnerships, and the cultivation of a unique and supportive ecosystem. With a clear future mission and a robust succession plan, the organization is set to continue its vital work shaping Australia's innovation landscape.