The University of Newcastle's Integrated Innovation Network (I2N) has been named the most recommended startup accelerator in Australia by Startup Muster – the largest survey of the nation's startup ecosystem.
As the University's entrepreneurship and venture development unit, I2N fuels the success of innovators, entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses by connecting them to community, customers, capital and coaching.
Since it was established in 2016, I2N has supported 188 startups and small businesses that have gone onto:
- raise more than $62.7 million in capital
- create 280 jobs
- contribute $44.1 million in wages for the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
I2N takes curious problem solvers and skills them up to become budding entrepreneurs through a host of programs and engagement strategies, including Grand Challenges, Hackathons and its flagship Accelerator program.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky, said I2N is a major drawcard for entrepreneurial thinking and investment in the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
"I2N is central to the University's efforts to build and nurture an entrepreneurial ecosystem," Professor Zelinsky said.
"This achievement demonstrates that high-quality innovation support can thrive in regional Australia. Founders no longer need to relocate to Sydney or Melbourne to access world-class acceleration support – they can get that support right here in the Hunter and Central Coast."
Being named the number one startup accelerator in the country is the latest accolade for the University's Integrated Innovation Network.
In 2024, I2N won the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activators of the Year at the Asia Pacific Triple E Awards.
At the 2023 Asia Pacific Triple E Awards, Siobhan Curran (Acting Director of Knowledge Exchange and Entrepreneurship) won the Entrepreneurial Leader of the Year Award and the People's Choice award in her category.
"Any recognition our I2N programs receive belongs to the people who make it possible – the mentors, coaches, industry partners and funding partners, including the NSW Government's Boosting Business Innovation Program which has backed regional innovation since 2016," Ms Curran said.
"Startup Muster's national survey represents the voice of the startup community, so being named the number one startup accelerator validates that our regional approach is a competitive advantage.
"We've nurtured a close-knit community of entrepreneurs and innovators, established a network of accessible mentors, and created a culture of genuine collaboration. Those attributes will continue to serve us well as I2N heads into its 10th year in 2026."
I2N supports startup founders, researchers and students by teaching them essential business skills and testing ideas to help their ventures grow faster. Expressions of interest for the 2026 cohort of I2N's flagship Accelerator program are now open at www.newcastle.edu.au/accelerator.
