The RMIT [Re]Launch program is designed to support Victorian circular economy startup entrepreneurs. The initiative offers two distinct tracks: a 5-week Incubator for discovering and addressing new challenges through customer interaction, and a 12-week Pre-Accelerator focused on venture creation and business readiness for startup founders. The Pre-Accelerator, in particular, provides intensive support from expert facilitators and coaches to help launch circular startups and prepare them for accelerated growth.
Program Structure and Offerings
• Program Duration: An intensive 12-week Pre-Accelerator program.
• Resource Value: Participants gain access to the equivalent of $200,000 worth of resources, which includes equity-free funding opportunities and access to RMIT’s technology and researchers.
• Weekly Growth Sessions: A suite of sessions designed to establish strong foundations for startup growth by systematically reducing business risk.
• Stand-ups and Coaching: Weekly accountability stand-ups and support from expert coaches drawn from the broader Circular Tech ecosystem.
• Residency: Graduates receive ongoing support through the Residency program, which includes access to co-working space, continued mentorship, and other benefits.
Funding Opportunities
• Initial Funding: Participants receive $1,500 upon entry into the program.
• Further Investment: Opportunities to secure up to $20,000 in equity- and interest-free funding.
• Expert Support: Guidance and support are provided by the Activator Capital Fund Board.
Eligibility Criteria
• Founder Profile: The program supports emerging Victorian founders with a circular startup that incorporates a tech component.
• Business Registration: Founders must be willing to register their business in Victoria by the end of the Pre-accelerator Program Residency period.
• Solution Focus: The program is for early-stage startups advancing solutions within the circular economy, prioritizing innovations that reduce waste, increase resource efficiency, or promote sustainable production and consumption.
• Technology and Impact: Startups should leverage technology to address sustainability challenges and create scalable models with measurable environmental or social impact.
• Affiliation: Applicants do not need to be affiliated with RMIT, but the startup must be registered (or willing to register) in Victoria, with founders who reside in the state.
Profile of a Successful Applicant
• Team Commitment: A driven and purposeful team, with at least one member able to attend all sessions over the 12 weeks.
• Market Awareness: A clear understanding of the market opportunity.
• Problem-Solution Fit: An identifiable problem and a corresponding solution.
• Customer Validation: Evidence of early customer validation through real user feedback.
• Product Stage: At least a prototype that has been tested.
• Mindset: A curious mindset with a willingness to ask questions, accept feedback, and support fellow founders.
Application Process and Key Dates
• Round 1 - Application Form: Applications close on Sunday, 8th February 2026, at 11:59 PM AEDT. All outcomes will be communicated by early February.
• Round 2 - Bootcamp Session: Held on the 16th & 18th of February 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at RMIT Activator (City Campus).
• Program Commencement: The program begins on 10th March 2026.
• Weekly Sessions: Program sessions will take place weekly on Tuesdays from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM at RMIT Activator (City Campus).
• Program Break: A one-week break for Easter, with no session on Tuesday, 7th April 2026.
• Pitch Night: Scheduled for 3rd June 2026.
• Activator Fund Pitch Date: Scheduled for 24th June 2026.
The [Re]Launch program is funded by LaunchVic as part of its Grants for Targeted Pre-accelerators program. For comprehensive details, application guidelines, and frequently asked questions, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official program website.