Taronga’s HATCH Accelerator Program

Applications for the 2023 HATCH Accelerator Program are now open! We are supporting founders and eco-startups deliver positive environmental impact, with a $50,000 prize for the winning idea.

There is no doubt that we are facing a biodiversity crisis, with severe declines in global wildlife and habitat that have been described as “Code Red for the Planet”.

We require a whole generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to bring change across every industry and corner of the globe. New technologies and ideas must be the at the forefront of tackling climate change and supporting biodiversity and conservation.

There is still time to act, but the time is running out.

Through this program Taronga aims to drive innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing conservation and environmental challenges. If you are an eco-startup and have a brilliant idea, product or service that you think will be the next game changer for the planet, or know someone who does, Taronga wants to hear from you.

Program highlights:

• $25,000 value in development support per participating initiative
• $2,000 equity free seed funding per initiative
• The opportunity to receive up to $50,000 in funding at the end of the 14-week accelerator. No strings attached – free to participate, no equity required
• Available to applications Australia wide
• Travel and accommodation included
• Support to develop a brilliant idea into a not-for-profit or social enterprise venture
• Access to top mentors and subject matter experts, including Taronga’s experts in conservation, science, education and community engagement
• A peer group of like-minded innovators and thought leaders

Applications close on Friday 10^th February 2023, so get yours in today!

APPLY NOW

For inspiration, check out our previous HATCHlings which include eco-startups like Good-Edi, who created the first edible take-away coffee cup; Carapac, a sustainable, durable, home compostable plastic packaging alternative made from crustacean shell waste; and Xylo Systems, a threatened species management system.

For more information visit the HATCH webpage, sign up to the mailing list to receive program updates, and join the program community on LinkedIn. If you have any questions you can contact the team at hatch@zoo.nsw.gov.au.