The Generation Next program is a fully funded accelerator designed for women founders from ASEAN countries, Australia, and Timor-Leste who are ready to scale their businesses on a global stage. This 13-week program, supported by the ASEAN-Australia Centre and delivered by HEX, aims to fuel ambition, build cross-border connections, and drive economic growth. Combining online learning, tailored mentoring, and real-world business experiences, the program is designed to fast-track the success of 30 early-stage female entrepreneurs and provide a launchpad for international growth.
Eligibility Criteria
• 2026 Theme: The program is seeking businesses building in the digital economy, including areas such as AI, fintech, digital trade, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, platform technologies, and other technology-driven innovations.
• Business Eligibility: Applicants must have a startup, small business, or social enterprise with a prototype, early customers, or early revenue.
• Founder Profile: The program is open to early-stage female founders aged 18–40.
• Eligible Countries: Founders must be from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, or Timor-Leste.
Program Structure and Schedule
The program consists of 12 weeks of online interactive experiences followed by a 7-day trade mission in Melbourne.
• Successful Applicants Announced: Monday, 18 May 2026
• Kick-off: Thursday, 25 June 2026
• Week 1 (2 July 2026): Building cohort community
• Week 2 (9 July 2026): Founder’s mindset and foundations
• Week 3 (16 July 2026): Personal brand and storytelling
• Week 4 (23 July 2026): Problem, customer, and market
• Week 5 (30 July 2026): Designing and refining solutions
• Week 6 (6 August 2026): Optimising business model and capital strategy
• Mid-Program Break (13 August 2026)
• Week 7 (20 August 2026): Trade mission objectives and preparation
• Week 8 (27 August 2026): Pitch structure and public speaking
• Week 9 (3 September 2026): Going global
• Week 10 (10 September 2026): Brand growth and go-to-market strategy
• Week 11 (13–19 September 2026): 7-day trade mission in Melbourne, Australia, featuring one-on-one business meetings, exclusive networking opportunities, and engagement with industry leaders and investors
• Week 12 (24 September 2026): Reflections and future planning
• Program Close (1 October 2026): Final wrap-up and ongoing community connection
Grant Inclusions
The fully funded opportunity, valued at over AUD 10,000, includes:
• 13-week Generation Next program
• Return flights to Melbourne
• 8 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily meal stipend and included breakfast
• Local transport costs
• 30+ industry workshops
• Networking and events
• Coworking space access
• HEXPO VIP event ticket
• University certificate
• Industry mentoring
• Personal brand photoshoot
Key Learning Outcomes
Participants will develop high-demand business skills, including:
• Creative thinking
• Problem solving
• Branding and PR
• Influence
• Leadership
• Product prototyping
• Networking
• Pitching
• Public speaking
• Identifying markets and trends
• Innovation
• Cultural literacy
• Strategy
Application Process and Key Dates
• Application Process: Applicants should first ensure their business aligns with the 2026 theme. The process involves submitting an application form, followed by a potential interview. Full attendance at all workshops and the ability to travel for the trade mission are mandatory.
• Applications Close: Tuesday, 5 May 2026
• Successful Applicants Announced: Monday, 18 May 2026
• Program Kick-off: Thursday, 25 June 2026
• Online Program: 2 July – 1 October 2026
• Melbourne Trade Mission: 13–19 September 2026
Delivered by the multi-award-winning accelerator HEX, the Generation Next program offers a high-impact opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, expand their networks, and grow as leaders. It is designed to equip founders with the skills, exposure, and connections needed to scale beyond their home markets.