Australia’s leading university startup accelerator

MAP Accelerator is home to ambitious founders building scalable, high-impact startups.

For over a decade, the Melbourne Accelerator Program has helped founders navigate the challenges of early-stage growth by creating the conditions high-performance teams need to succeed.

Every team receives $20,000 in equity-free funding, dedicated desk space and Claude team accounts for the duration of the program.

Founders are immersed in a high-performance environment with access to Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs), mentors, and the wider MEC ecosystem, designed to help exceptional teams move faster and think bigger.

$300m+

Investment Raised

$250m+

Revenue Generated

1,500+

Jobs Created

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Why MAP Accelerator?

Because high-performance requires the right environment.

We provide support when it matters most - helping teams navigate uncertainty, strengthen decision-making and build momentum.

What are the benefits?

  • $20,000 equity-free funding
  • Claude team account for the duration of the program
  • Weekly 1:1 coaching from experienced founders
  • Dedicated office space at the MEC office's in Melbourne Connect
  • Access to the MAP alumni and mentor network and the wider MEC ecosystem

Applications are now open for MAP Accelerator 2026

Applications close on 14 June 2026

Apply Now

FAQs

  • Our MAP Accelerator program has three eligibility pathways:

    1 - You're University of Melbourne affiliated OR
    ‍‍ 
    2 - Your startup has social impact at its core (sponsored by Cameron Foundation) OR
    ‍
    3 - Your startup is working to address the urgent challenges of the climate crisis (sponsored by Melbourne Climate Futures)

  • Stage 1

    • Submit your written application through the MEC Portal here

    Stage 2

    • Take part in the first round of interviews

    Stage 3

    • Pitch your startup and Q&A session in the final panel interview

  • The Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre (MEC) is the University of Melbourne’s flagship innovation centre driving entrepreneurship, innovation, and venture creation.

    We connect innovators, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and investors through educational programs, venture building and global innovation networks, equipping them with the skills, confidence and connections to bring transformative research and new ideas to life.

    Since 2018, MEC has delivered exceptional impact outcomes: $440M+ in venture funding raised, thousands of innovators supported, and a dynamic global community of 150+ expert mentors.