How do I apply? How do I get a referral?

If getting selected for the Optus Innov8 Seed Program sounds a little mysterious, that’s because it is.

We’ve got no online application process and no plans to have one.

The best way to be selected for the Program is to impress someone in our partner network. If you can do that, they’ll refer you as a potential applicant, and we’ll meet to assess your startup.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll probably find it quite easy. If you’re still scratching your head, don’t worry — have a read of these tips and give it a crack.

Impress someone in our partner network

If someone we trust recommends you, that’s enough. Though getting someone we trust to recommend you isn’t as easy as it sounds. First you need to find someone we trust, then you’ll need to convince them you’re a worthy candidate. In most cases, you’ll already be a startup in one of their incubator programs.

You can meet these people during one of our pitch events throughout the year. Otherwise, you’ll stumble upon them while hustling out in the field. Wherever you meet them, they’ll be time-poor and critcal. You’ll need to be ready with a good elevator pitch and some evidence.

Have something to demonstrate

If you’ve got a working prototype, show us how it works. There’s nothing better to sell an idea than its simplest working form. Other evidence is also worthwhile—things like marketing, data, or even list of prospective customers that have signed up for a future service. We all love great ideas but we want to see how your approach to execution.

Traction

Traction. We love traction. It might be users, number of downloads, unique browsers per month, etc. Show evidence that you’re tracking in the right direction. Goes without say that if you’ve got paying customers, you’ve got our interest (customer validation: we love that). That’s a no brainer.

Create a great video pitch

The strength of an idea can be measured in the simplicity of its pitch. If you’re able to sell us on your startup during a video, you’ve probably got something good or you’ve just demonstrated that you’re a great communicator. If attending our events is difficult, this is a good place to start.