Telstra-backed "startup accelerator" muru-D is looking for applications from digital entrepreneurs for the third round of its Sydney-based SYD3 investment and coaching scheme.
Ten successful startups will get $60,000 worth of seed capital investment, collaborative workspaces, business support and access to a global network of mentors and investors to help them "develop and expand". The window closes on October 31, and applications can be made now on the muru-D website.
One startup will also receive mentorship from Seven West Media's chief digital officer Clive Dickens, who has previously been involved with Shazam and Audioboom when they were in their nascent, startup phases. Dickens, as part of the partnership between muru-D and Seven West Media, will also sit on the advisory board of the six-month scheme.
“It has been often said that a great idea that can transform an industry can come from anywhere. Seven West Media’s investment in and support of muru-D SYD3 is undoubtedly a hugely positive innovative step forward," said Dickens.
"Our commitment to muru-D provides a clear indication of the future development of our company as we expand our presence in content and build new businesses that deliver content and services to our audiences, anywhere and on any device.”
Despite the Dickens involvement, it is more a tale of three cities, with muru-D having a presence in Sydney, Singapore and Brisbane.
“One of muru-D’s objectives is to grow and support the startup ecosystem in Australia. This means working with other corporations and organisations to help educate and advise them on the most meaningful way to participate," said muru-D co-founder Annie Parker.
"We see this partnership as a great outcome; one which could become the blueprint to work with other companies throughout our programs, in Australia and Singapore.
“This is a unique opportunity for a media industry startup to receive a specialised level of support and guidance that is in line with our philosophy to provide the best accelerator experience for digital growth and innovation in Australia,” Parker added.
Stage two of the program saw $440,000 going to 11 startups in October 2014, including companies producing custom surfboards from 3D modelling, a social site for travelling stories, and a digital marketplace for freight transporting companies to sell empty space on.
The program launched in October 2013, taking on nine start ups for a six month incubation period.
See here for last year's story on Telstra ups investment in startups, launches Muru-D class two
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