Green Light Accelerator Program

Meeting the sustainability challenges of the 21st century requires rapid, disruptive innovation at a speed and scale never seen before – the world needs entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurs need support to build their solutions.   Enter Green Light - the world's first dedicated algae accelerator program - with the overarching aim to bring NSW to the forefront of algae-based innovation in Australia.

Green Light is a 13-week accelerator program running from July - October 2025 dedicated to supporting the development of algae biotech solutions, products and services in NSW across a broad range of industries - from innovations to optimize algae growth and deliver biomass to the wholesale market, or products and services using micro or macroalgae for aqua-and-agriculture, bioproducts, food and materials. 
 
The program leverages the algae biotechnology research strength of the UTS Climate Change Cluster (C3) to support the research and development of algae-related projects put forward by NSW small to medium enterprises (SME’s) and start-ups (including entrepreneurs), prioritising projects underpinned by an approach to sustainability.
 

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Light Fact Sheet

Upon success in the program, teams will receive seed funding and comprehensive support from UTS, including research mentorship. Additionally, they'll gain access to selected masterclasses, networking events, and industry gatherings offered through UTS and associated organisations. Plus, you'll unlock a 6-month membership to UTS Startups, providing access to desk space, networking opportunities, and a diverse range of community events and workshops.

Assistance and resourcing will be leveraged for the product to reach proof-of-concept stage; with the graduating teams leaving the program with a plan for further investigation, research, scaling, or production.

Sucessful applicants will receive various individualised support and guidance over the 3-month program and opportunities to work with and ask experts questions across the start-up and algae sectors. This support will look like; 

• Curated entrepreneurial support across 3 months (July-October 2025), targeting business goals. 
• Access to research mentorship from leading algae experts at the University of Technology Sydney's Climate Change Cluster 
• Up to AUD 10,000 in seed-funding
• 6 Months membership to UTS Startups, including desk space, networking, & community events and workshops
• Connection to workshops and networking opportunities with industry and innovation leaders, academics and entrepreneurial experts within the UTS Innovation Ecosystem.

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Applicants must first submit an EOI to express interest in the program.

2. Book a Consultation

After submitting an EOI, teams will be sent an email to book a consultation with the Deep Green Biotech Hub team. This consultation is a casual discussion to share ideas about your project, answer any questions and talk through the application process.

3. Prepare and Complete the Application Form

Applicants should then prepare and complete the application form with the project proposal, budget and timeline.