National Energy Transition Accelerator
The National Energy Transition Accelerator is an 8-week program designed to launch early-stage Australian startups and founders with high-growth potential developing solutions to support the resources technology and critical minerals sectors in the global energy transition.
Meet the 2024 Cohort
Biobead
Based out of The University of Queensland, this team are developing a new way to treat mining wastewater using hydrogel beads encapsulating microorganisms that remove pollutants.
Carbophite
Based out of the University of Melbourne, this team are developing a method of carbon-coating anode materials to extend the life of lithium batteries and supercapacitors.
Decarbonators
This team have developed a process to convert greenhouse gases into valuable transportation fuels whilst also reducing process footprint and the energy consumption needed for their generation.
Dryad Enterprises
The team at Dryad have developed a fully automated system that produces the perfect growth environment for microbes to convert CO2 into biofuels.
Electro Base
Electro Base are designing and building the next generation of energy storage and management solutions for remote businesses.
Hydrobe
Harnessing the natural capabilities of microalgae for cleaner energy production, Hydrobe® utilises a biologically driven process that captures more carbon dioxide than it emits.
Nepternal Hydrogen
One of the four protoventures being supported by the Curtin Venture Studio, the team at Nepternal have developed a high-efficiency hydrogen production electrolyzer using unpurified water sources.
RapidGraphite
Also supported by the Curtin Venture Studio, this team have developed a catalytic graphitisation technology to produce synthetic graphite essential for lithium battery production.
Watts & Fisher
This team based in Perth have developed a process that uses a recyclable liquid to break down ores 20 times faster than the conventional method, reducing costs and chemical waste significantly.
Program Objective
The National Energy Transition Accelerator has been developed by the Trailblazer team to fill a capability gap in two key sectors essential for the energy transition efforts globally. Participants will learn how to commercialise their energy transition innovation into a thriving business in 8-short weeks.
A $10,000 equity-free grant, fuelling your initial development phase.
Connection to local, national, and global energy transition leaders.
Introductions to potential customers and partners including resource corporate venture arms.
Immersion in a vibrant ecosystem of mentors, experts, and investors.
Access to investment through Curtin University’s Venture Studio and Kickstart+ program.
Subsidised travel costs to attend program in person in both Western Australia and Queensland.
Lead Facilitator
Matt Macfarlane (GAICD CA) is the Chair of icetana (ASX:ICE) – an AI-video analytics company and of PetRescue a pet rehoming charity; he is also a non-executive director of AgriFutures a statutory body that helps to fund research and development in Australian rural industries and AEGIC an export grains research organisation.
Matt is an active angel investor in early stage tech startups, and has been contributing to the startup eco-system in Perth for over 18 years. Matt works hands-on with technology-led companies to assist in building teams, accelerating growth, achieving milestones and securing additional financing. He is a judge for the WA Innovator of the Year Awards and the AIM Pinnacle Awards.
