Help build India’s clean energy future—one founder at a time

At Startupbootcamp, mentors are the lifeblood of our programs. We bring together a diverse group of

industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, functional specialists, policymakers, and investors who

generously share their time and insight with early-stage startups.

About Startupbootcamp

Startupbootcamp (SBC) is a global family of industry-focused accelerators that support early-stage founders to rapidly scale their startups.

The program is mentor-driven, giving founders access to a diverse range of knowledge and experience. Mentors provide targeted access to opaque industries. There’s no fluff or grandstanding, just the exposure and insight that help take a startup to the next level.

You’ll join a Global Network of over 20 programs and become part of our ‘Innovation Family’ that stretches from Melbourne to New York, Cape Town, Dubai, and London.

You’ll get access to the program events, reports, training, and socials and can visit any of our programs globally. Join us either virtually or in person, depending on your location and availability.

By giving back, you’ll be helping transform the startup ecosystem, potentially sourcing investments and working with the best and brightest from around the world. Plus it’s great fun!

"The thing that actually made me most proud . . . was seeing how they cooperated with EnergyAustralia. I think one of the most amazing things we can bring to a program like this is the real-life experience, the practical trials, the access to the passionate experts at Energy Australia, and you could see that today. It was just amazing."

Catherine Tanna

Managing Director, EnergyAustralia

Types of Mentors

There are two types of mentors- Advisory and Expert. They play different parts in the development of our startups throughout the duration of the program. Both roles are a vital component in ensuring their success. The advisor you'd like to be is up to you!

Advisory Mentors

Time commitment: 1-2 hours per week during the 3-month program

Work closely with startups on a weekly basis and will often form part of the “SBC Advisory Board” for the duration of the program.

All advisory mentors will get the opportunity to meet participating teams face-to-face, play a role in selection, and then decide which startups they want to engage with.

Expert Mentors

Time commitment: Min 1-2 Days Per Year

For those who don’t have time to dedicate themselves to a particular team, we have a secondary pool of standby experts that will work with one or more startups on an ad-hoc basis.

They provide niche advice, troubleshoot problems startups face, and provide introductions to their personal network.

The time commitment is on an as-needed basis when best suits.

Program Structure

Validation Phase

Validate the concept/product
Mentor & Client meetings

Building Phase

Develop business model
Build minimal viable product
Set up pilots with customers

Investor Ready

Run pilots
Develop metrics
Prepare pitch for Demo Day
Develop investor pack

Ongoing Support

Get funded
Scale-up
Join our global alumni network

What will you get out of being a mentor at SBC?

It’s an inspiring way to learn & gain some insight on what’s going on in the startup world.

You'll get access to SBC program resources, knowledge and training.

You’ll become part of a global network of national and international mentors, sponsors, and investors and can visit other programs when you travel.

It’s a way to give back to the next generation of startup talent we source and bring to Melbourne.

You’ll connect with mentors, corporate partners, and government at multiple events each year.

Mentors can continue working with startups after the program in a commercial arrangement as an investor, advisor, or board member.

You’ll be profiled on our global and local website.

Post SBC Program

During the program, we request mentors do not enter into any agreement with the startups regarding payment, interest, or any other equity without first discussing it with the program management.

However, after the program concludes, it is up to the startups and mentors to decide if they want to continue the relationship. Some mentors use our program to source investments, while others continue working as a mentor, paid advisor/consultant, or board member.

The SBC program team has no formal involvement in commercial arrangements at the conclusion of the program.

"I started as a mentor in December 2017, and it's been a really invigorating experience. I was asked recently 'What do I get out of it?'. Quietly, I think I got more out of it than the entrepreneurs. To be able to kind of reflect on that and then to help guide some of these startups has been so rewarding."

Apply to be a Mentor

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