Expressions of Interest OpenNext cohort

Express your interest in Future Frontier .

We're selecting 20–25 ambitious founders, researchers and scientists building AI and deep-tech ventures with the potential to create meaningful commercial and societal impact.

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Who we're looking for

Founders building AI-native and deep-tech ventures.

AI-native

A company where artificial intelligence is central to its product, service or operations — fundamental to how the startup creates impact and delivers its offerings.

Deep-tech

Technology rooted in advanced scientific principles, discoveries and engineering breakthroughs, requiring technical expertise and the development of intellectual property that is hard to reproduce — eg robotics, biotechnology, green energy, nanotechnology and advanced materials etc

Before you start

What to have ready

The application takes 15–20 minutes. You cannot save and return, so please have these ready.

PROGRAM KEY INFORMATION

Program kick-off bootcamp
4 September 2026 · full-day, in-person
Program sessions
Fridays, remote
Industry mixer
28 August · in-person
Program end date
13 November 2026
End of program showcase
Mid/late November (TBC)

Ready to express your interest?

The inaugural cohort is now closed — register for the next cohort.

In partnership with

Monash AI Institute

Supported by

Innovation Victoria

Questions? Email programs@illumeventures.com