Start-up ecosystem in Victoria

Welcome to Victoria, where you can access one of the world’s most exciting and rapidly growing startup ecosystems.

Whether you’re based here in Australia or overseas, you’ll find a vibrant network of founders, investors, and government-backed initiatives, providing critical funding, industry connections, and resources to support business growth and scalability.

Explore how Victoria’s thriving ecosystem can accelerate your growth, investment, or expansion into some of the world’s most transformative industries.

Key statistics:

Victoria’s startup ecosystem is one of the world’s fastest-growing, valued at $129 billion
Victoria is home to over 3,500 technology driven startups and 18 unicorns
Victoria’s early-stage ecosystem has more than doubled since 2022 – up 62% to A$38.4 billion
Melbourne is ranked #32, according to Startup Genome. This is on a par with Zurich and Munich
High-growth startups span sectors like fintech, biotech, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing

Victoria has produced 18 unicorns!

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Introducing LaunchVic

LaunchVic, Victoria’s startup agency, fuels the growth of the state’s startup sector by building a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem. Through targeted investments in programs, events, and research, LaunchVic connects entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and global networks.

The Victorian Start-up Ecosystem Dashboard

Dealroom Victoria is a free, real-time platform that provides founders like you with valuable data on Victoria’s startup ecosystem. It is managed by LaunchVic.

With Dealroom Victoria you can explore local resources, identify partners, and gain insights to help you thrive in Melbourne’s dynamic startup scene.

Start-up companies: Connect with peers and potential collaborators in your industry.
Investors: Find investors who align with your vision and stage of growth.
Funding: Access information on funding sources, from venture capital to government grants.
Workspaces: Locate co-working spaces and innovation hubs where your team can grow.
Accelerators: Explore programs designed to fast-track your startup’s success.
Universities: Leverage research, talent, and partnerships from Victoria’s top institutions.
Corporates: Build partnerships with established companies that support innovation.

Government initiatives and funding programs for start-ups

The Victorian Government has committed significant support to the startup ecosystem, largely through LaunchVic, established in 2016. Key programs that may be available to you include:

LaunchVic: Victoria’s start-up agency provides support for industry development - accelerators, training, talent development, advocacy (Domestic Application).
Startup Business Grants: Direct funding to startups. (FDI and domestic application).
Venture Growth Fund: Venture debt with $60 million in funding managed by Lighter Capital & OneVentures. (Domestic Application).
Alice Anderson Fund: $10 million fund for female tech entrepreneurs. (Domestic Application)
Victorian Business Growth Fund: $250 million SME fund in partnership with Aware Super. Managed by ROC Partners (Domestic Application).
R&D Cash Flow Loans: $50 million fund based on R&D tax offsets.
Breakthrough Victoria Fund: $2 billion VC fund with a broad focus, from pre-seed to Series B.
Equity Investment Attraction Fund: $20 million fund for interstate and international businesses.