Aspiring entrepreneurs on the Central Coast now have access to a major innovation program.
The University of Newcastle is expanding its I2N Pre-Accelerator to Gosford in 2025.
The program has successfully supported startups in Newcastle and will now run at both the Newcastle City Precinct and Gosford campuses.
For the first time, the program will offer a Healthtech stream.
It will be delivered in partnership with the Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab, an initiative supported by the NSW Government and Central Coast Local Health District.
This new focus will complement the existing Cleantech and All-Industries streams.
The I2N Pre-Accelerator provides structured mentoring, industry connections, and foundational business skills.
It helps innovators turn ideas into viable startups.
The expansion to Gosford recognises the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.
“The Hunter and Central Coast are seeing rapid innovation growth, especially in health technology,” Director of Entrepreneurship at the University of Newcastle Siobhan Curran said.
“By launching this program in Gosford, we are opening up new opportunities for local founders to develop solutions that address real-world challenges.”
The Healthtech stream will connect clinicians, researchers and entrepreneurs.
It aims to drive new solutions for community healthcare challenges.
Dr. Courtney Molloy, Manager of the Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Living Lab, highlighted the impact this initiative could have.
“This program creates a powerful ecosystem for Healthtech innovation, helping to improve patient outcomes across our communities,” she said.
Participants will have access to purpose-built innovation spaces.
These include the Q Building in Newcastle and the Central Coast Health & Wellbeing Precinct at Gosford Hospital.
The program is open to innovators across the Hunter and Central Coast regions, regardless of university affiliation.
Applications are now open.
For more information and to apply, visit www.newcastle.edu.au/pre-accelerator.
