iLab UQ

iLab UQ, an accelerator based in Brisbane, Australia, stands as The University of Queensland's (UQ) flagship program, meticulously crafted to fast-track ventures founded by UQ students, staff, and alumni. Operating under the umbrella of UQ Ventures, iLab offers a comprehensive and intensive curriculum over a typical 12 to 15-week period, designed to equip early-stage startups with the essential tools and knowledge for growth and investment readiness. Participants benefit from expert-led sessions covering critical areas such as business strategy, product development, go-to-market planning, and securing early funding opportunities like grants and angel investments.

Since its inception, iLab has established itself as one of Australia's longest-running and most impactful accelerator programs. As of September 2025, it has proudly supported over 350 startups, which have collectively created more than 1,550 jobs and attracted a significant ~$435 million in investment and grant funding. The program's history spans over two decades, having reached its 20th iteration by January 2025, consistently adapting its offerings to meet the evolving demands of the startup ecosystem. This enduring presence underscores its foundational role in fostering entrepreneurial talent within Queensland and beyond.

What sets iLab apart is its deep integration with The University of Queensland, providing UQ-affiliated founders with unparalleled access to a rich academic environment, experienced Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EiRs), and an extensive network of mentors, industry experts, and investors. The program places a strong emphasis on community building, encouraging collaboration and mutual support among cohort members, and extending these connections to a vibrant alumni network. Furthermore, iLab has evolved to include collaborations like the iLab x Momentum Accelerator, which provides tailored support for both early-stage and later-stage technology startups, offering diverse funding pathways.

iLab's key achievements are evident in the success stories of its alumni, who have gone on to achieve significant milestones across various industries. Notable ventures include GO1, a global corporate training platform, and ProcurePro, transforming construction procurement. More recent successes include Pollinate, accepted into the prestigious Y Combinator, MyHive, a community-powered safety app, and Rise, an innovative HealthTech SaaS solution. The program culminates in a highly anticipated Pitch Night, where founders showcase their refined ideas to investors and the wider innovation community, competing for further recognition and funding. The leadership team, including iLab Manager Tyson Jennings, along with a rotating panel of accomplished Entrepreneurs-in-Residence such as Abbey Cameron and Michael Cotton, provides invaluable guidance, challenging assumptions and sharpening business models to help founders transform bold ideas into thriving ventures.