We’re excited to share that new intakes for the Plus Eight Pre-Accelerator are now open, delivered at the Western Sydney Startup Hub and proudly supported by the NSW Government.
Whether you’re an early-stage founder or exploring a business idea for the first time, this free program is designed to help you develop, validate and grow your venture with hands-on guidance and support.
Delivered by Spacecubed, the program is fully accessible to individuals residing or operating within the 13 local government areas of Western Sydney, offering a structured, high-quality pathway for new founders to build the confidence, capability and community needed to take the next step.
Upcoming program intakes
We’re pleased to offer multiple intakes of the Western Sydney Pre-Accelerator across 2025 - 2026. Dates for upcoming cohorts are listed below:
Each intake follows the same core structure outlined below.
Weekly masterclasses
Held every Tuesday from 5pm - 7pm over six weeks, these facilitated sessions cover the essential foundations of building a successful business. Led by startup expert Caroline Lepron, you’ll work through practical topics, complete real-world assignments, and gain access to a rotating lineup of mentors offering tailored advice, insight and support.
Build your network
Meet fellow founders who are also developing early-stage ideas and learn alongside peers on a similar journey. The program gives you access to networks of mentors, investors, and advisors, plus complimentary tickets to events and community meetups at the Western Sydney Startup Hub.
Coworking access
Participants receive a Full-Time Coworking Membership at the Western Sydney Startup Hub for the duration of the program, giving you space to work on your business between sessions. You’ll also enjoy access to meeting rooms, member benefits and our vibrant coworking community.
Pitch night
At the end of the program, showcase your startup at our celebratory Pitch Night in front of founders, investors, mentors and supporters. It’s a chance to celebrate your progress, gain exposure, and compete for prizes to help accelerate your next stage of growth.
Reflecting on her time in the 2024 Pre-Accelerator, Cheyanne Carter, founder of Divergent Education and winner of that year’s Pitch Night, shared how transformational the experience was.
“The mentorship, workshops, and structured approach helped me refine my business model and strategy while connecting me with a community of successful founders and industry experts,” she shared.
Since completing the program, Cheyanne has been featured twice on national television through ABC’s Four Corners and 7:30, and also appeared in publications including the Australian Financial Review. Cheyanne’s platform EduBuddy supports hundreds of educators each week and she has also made an impact by starting a petition that has gained traction with over 19,000 signatures.
Aimee Paananen took the first place prize for the 2025 program, showcasing The Social Glow Up to help victims like herself rebuild financial stability after domestic violence and trauma.
“Throughout this journey, there have been tears, tough questions and moments of deep reflection. But there’s also been growth, support and the reminder that strength can rise from even the hardest chapters,” reflected Aimee.
If you're an innovator based in Western Sydney looking to explore, validate or grow a business idea, the Plus Eight Pre-Accelerator is your opportunity to build momentum with expert-led support.
Applications for the next intake are now open. Click here to learn more and apply before applications close on January 23, 2026.