iLab UQ

iLab UQ is a prominent accelerator program based in Brisbane, Australia, operating under the umbrella of UQ Ventures at The University of Queensland. Its core mission is to fast-track early-stage ventures, particularly those founded by UQ students, staff, and alumni. The program provides a structured curriculum, expert-led sessions, and invaluable mentorship from Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EiRs), alongside access to extensive startup and investor networks in Queensland and beyond.

Established in 2000 by the Queensland Government as one of Australia's pioneering incubators, iLab's operations were taken over by The University of Queensland in 2012. This acquisition led to its expansion and integration into the university's entrepreneurial ecosystem, moving to the St Lucia campus in 2016 to better serve UQ-affiliated founders. Since 2012, iLab has facilitated over 13 accelerator programs, supporting more than 500 young founders across 185 companies and accumulating over 3,000 mentor sessions.

What sets iLab UQ apart is its long-standing history as one of Australia's most experienced accelerator programs, known for its rigorous selection process and a strong track record of backing high-potential startups. Participants in recent iLab accelerator cohorts receive a A$15,000 SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) note investment from UniQuest, UQ's commercialisation company. This funding, while not an upfront equity stake, grants UniQuest the right to future equity upon a pre-agreed trigger event. This mechanism allows startups to secure initial capital quickly, deferring valuation discussions.

A key development for iLab UQ has been its partnership with the Momentum Accelerator, creating a combined program that supports both early-stage (iLab track) and later-stage (Momentum track) ventures. This collaboration provides a comprehensive pathway for startups at various growth stages, enhancing access to funding, networks, and tailored support. Collectively, Ventures programs, including iLab, have supported over 240 startups throughout 14 years, which have gone on to raise more than A$214 million in investments. More recent figures indicate support for over 350 startups, creating more than 1,550 jobs and attracting approximately A$435 million in investment and grant funding.

Notable alumni include Endla, which received backing from Y Combinator, and Stripped Supply, a past iLab Accelerator Pitch Night winner. More recently, Pollinate was accepted into the Y Combinator Winter 2026 cohort, and MyHive won first prize at an iLab Pitch Night. Leadership within iLab UQ includes Tyson Jennings as the iLab Accelerator Manager, supported by experienced Entrepreneurs-in-Residence such as Abbey Cameron and Michael Cotton (2026 cohort), and previously Zoë Black and Marc Orchard (2024 cohort).