Study for Startup Success with 6 Degrees

Helping CEOs of the future take their ideas out of the lounge room and into the boardroom is the aim of a new and exciting startup mentoring programme being launched by 6 Degrees in September 2018.

‘Startup Onramp’ is a 12-week training and mentoring programme that gives locals with great business ideas the skills, advice and networks they need to launch and grow their company.

“The hardest step for any future company founder is quitting the day job and actually starting their new enterprise,” said Stephen Saunders, Council’s Section Leader Industry Destination Development. “We’ve signed up to the ‘Startup Onramp’ programme to give new and aspiring startup founders the knowledge and skills to successfully navigate the pitfalls of getting their startup through its first year.

“A key part of the programme is that it’s suitable for people with a day job. Training will be one evening a week for 12 weeks. So, if you’re considering launching a startup, or have an idea for a startup, ‘Startup Onramp’ is for you.”

The programme consists of 12 weekly workshops following a logical progression from idea validation to product development, customer acquisition, investment and growth. The workshops are delivered by the Programme Facilitator and supported by guest presenters from the local region, such as entrepreneurs, investors and subject matter experts, who also help with mentoring of the teams.

The course culminates in a pitch night at which all the participants present their startups. It is expected that at the end of the programme, the future founders will:

have defined their market offering; have validated their ideas with the market and experts; improved their start-up skills and understanding of the startup landscape; developed a viable business model with revenue streams; be able to pitch to gain co-founders, investors or enter an accelerator program; be ready to access grants such as the Jobs for NSW MVP grant; be capable of entering the Startup Coffs Coast 2019 Pitch Comp; and pitch in relevant competitions or to funders outside the region.

To be part of the first ‘Startup Onramp’, you will have to enter by August 19 2018. To help people with their applications, 6 Degrees staff will be running workshops for future founders. To find out more, go to https://sixdegreescoworking.com/

“’Startup Onramp’ is a great way to start as a founder. The best thing about the programme is that it helps you to make sure you are building a product that customers love.” Holly Cardew – CEO and Founder, Pixc – and ‘Startup Onramp’ past participant.