Founders Defence 10x

Founders Defence 10x is a specialised accelerator program based in Sydney, Australia, dedicated to fostering innovation and strengthening Australia's sovereign defence capabilities. Launched on 12 April 2023 by UNSW Founders as a key component of the $240 million Defence Trailblazer initiative, it aims to bridge the gap between early-stage startups and the intricate demands of the defence sector. The program provides participating companies with entrepreneurial experience, seed investment, access to cutting-edge research and development capabilities, and extensive networks within industry, academia, and government.

Serving Australian founders and startups, Founders Defence 10x focuses on deep technology with applications in defence, including dual-use technologies that can benefit both military and civilian sectors. This encompasses critical areas such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, hypersonics, autonomous systems, space technology, advanced materials, robotics, and systems designed to protect vital national infrastructure like energy and water resources. The program targets startups with a proof of concept, prototype, or minimum viable product (MVP), accepting ventures with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) as low as TRL3. While open to all Australian founders, eligibility often includes a co-founder being a current UNSW student, staff member, or alumnus.

What sets Founders Defence 10x apart is its unique positioning as Australia's only dedicated defence-focused accelerator program. It benefits from the philanthropic backing of UNSW Founders, which allows for founder-friendly investment terms. While earlier cohorts received up to $350,000 in seed investment, the program currently offers $100,000 via a pre-money Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) note with a 15% discount and no valuation cap, along with potential for up to $130,000 in follow-on funding. Participants gain unparalleled access to UNSW's world-class R&D facilities, technical expertise, and a vast network of mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, and a vibrant community of like-minded innovators.

Key achievements include the successful graduation of cohorts in 2023 and 2024, contributing to the broader UNSW Founders accelerator network which has seen over 130 startups raise more than $200 million since 2019. Notable alumni relevant to the defence sector include HEO Robotics, which specialises in satellite imagery, and Hullbot, a company that has raised significant capital for its shipping climate technology. Leadership for the initiative includes David Burt, Director of Entrepreneurship at UNSW, Dr Sanjay Mazumdar, Executive Director of Defence Trailblazer, and Liz Kobold, Defence Trailblazer Innovation Manager.