Alumni Angels Innovation Fund

Every groundbreaking startup begins with a spark – an idea, a bold vision, and a passion to make an impact. Yet, transforming these sparks into successful ventures requires more than inspiration; it demands guidance, resources, and a network of support. At JCU we believe in the potential of our alumni to drive regional transformation, and we invite you to join us in fuelling their journey.

Join Us

Together, we can empower our students and Founders-In-Residence to pioneer solutions, shape industries, and transform communities. By supporting the Alumni Angels Innovation Fund, you are a catalyst for change, ensuring our new innovators have the resources, connections and mentorship needed to succeed. Your contribution will help us provide grants to students that will fund essential tech tools, pay for legal or patent advice, support prototype development and provide the initial capital for these startups.

Through the JCU Ideas Lab Founders-in- Residence program, JCU is at the forefront of the innovation ecosystem in Far North Queensland, we have a powerful platform for translating JCU’s research and teaching expertise into real-world solutions. Your contribution to the Alumni Angels Innovation Fund provide the tools, connections, and support these innovators need to bring their ideas to life. Contributions to the Alumni Angels Fund will:

  • Fuel Innovation – by providing essential funding to launch cutting-edge businesses that solve real-world challenges and create jobs, contributing to a vibrant economy here in the North.
  • Empower Alumni-Led Startups – by creating mentorship and networking opportunities for alumni entrepreneurs, enabling them to launch, grow, and sustain successful ventures.
  • Cultivate Future Leaders – By helping emerging entrepreneurs learn from experienced alumni mentors, you invest in the leadership of tomorrow.
  • Build a Legacy of Impact – By establishing a culture of alumni-driven innovation, where graduates give back, create opportunities, and contribute to a thriving economy.

The JCU Founders-in-Residence program is already seeing tangible innovation initiatives, the start-up Teleportal, aims to launch a fleet of tethered solar-powered and Starlink-connected underwater Bots that will transform virtual learning. The ‘Bots will form part of a virtual classroom that will allow students and citizen scientists to explore the Great Barrier Reef from anywhere in the world.  Imagine being able to bring the Reef to the classroom, boardroom or even the hospital room for terminally ill kids. This innovative start-up will mean the reef can be experienced in real-time via mobile devices, making marine science accessible and immersive for all.