The University of Melbourne Genesis Pre-Seed Fund

The University of Melbourne has a strong track record of transforming research into impactful solutions that benefit society.

From the invention of the life-changing Cochlear implant to Synchron’s brain-computer interface to the conservation of the world’s oldest Indigenous art collection, we understand we have a responsibility to not only conduct research but to also to make a difference in the world.

One of the ways we action this social responsibility is by translating research discoveries and innovations into startups and spin-out companies. We know that by transforming research findings into tangible products and services, we have the best chance of making an impact on people’s lives.

The mission of the Fund and the new Genesis Ventures team is to help world class researchers from the University of Melbourne and affiliated partners translate their discoveries and inventions to benefit society via a start-up pathway.

Hear from founders about 2023's six inspirational research startups:

‘Pre-seed’ indicates the early stage of a startup lifecycle. Startups in this stage may be going through  proof-of-concept, technology validation, prototype development, and product-market testing.

Addressing the pre-seed stage funding gap

Often this is the point where startups fail or fall into the first ‘Valley of Death’. The high-risk nature of this stage means it is often difficult to get funding from investors. The Fund and Genesis Ventures team wants to fill this gap so that great ideas can not only survive but thrive - and advance to the next stage of funding with external investors.

Addressing the funding gap as part of an end-to-end funding solution