CORE Start is back in 2022! Apply Now!
Calling Energy & Mining entrepreneurs, game-changers and challengers ready to take their business to the next level. Apply now for CORE Start!
The FREE 3 month entrepreneurial mentorship program has been designed to help founders continue to effectively scale their business by giving them additional skills and tools to take on new challenges, evaluate emerging market and product strategies, better understand investment and venture capital markets, and incorporate design thinking in scale ups.
Kicking off in late April, this will be the sixth CORE Start program since 2020. We spoke with two CORE Start Alumni to get a first hand insight into how it works and what you will learn.
Natasha Leppard, Soft Rigging Solutions
“I was lucky enough to participate in CORE Start 2021, which equipped me with invaluable skills, confidence and friendships.
During the CORE Start program, I learnt some business basics which did NOT seem so basic to me at the time, such as developing a business plan or writing a mission statement. I received personalised coaching from a mentor who helped me focus on the future and the growth of our company rather than just jumping the hurdles as they arose.
The Group mentoring was always a perfect blend of laughs and engaging content. Allowing me to gain confidence in public speaking, goal setting, marketing strategies, and so much more.
During my first group session I struggled to even describe our products; I felt awkward and uncomfortable. Now I’m able to pitch our products clearly, concisely, and with confidence. I cannot recommend this program enough.”
Natasha’s growth didn’t stop there. Since completing the CORE Start in 2021, Soft Rigging Solutions were named as part of the Hot 30 Awards in 2022. We’re sure they will continue to go from strength to strength this year and beyond.
Peta Chirgwin, Chameleon Mettle Group
1. Why you would recommend CORE Start?
CORE Start is a great opportunity to build confidence in your idea, collaborate with other start-ups and network.
2. What were some of the key learnings you got from the program?
I revisited the idea of goal setting which is a valuable tool. The public speaking day with Shil was definitely a highlight.
3. Did it help with establishing and building your networks?
It was a great opportunity to build my network and be part of the broader ecosystem CORE has established.
4. What is something you got from the program which has enabled you to further progress your idea/product?
I really appreciated the use of the space in the core office through the program, working with other participants ad the activities we completed were well worth my time and the program was not too onerous in that it impacted my work. I used my time to validate my idea and have since pivoted from my initial idea.
We love how Peta was able to take the practical knowledge shared in the program and apply it to her business to identify the need to pivot in order to continue to grow and scale. We recently had the pleasure of Peta speaking at CORE as part of our International Women’s Day Tech Talk. Check it out here.
Be part of the next CORE Start!
Applications are now open! If you are a start-up, scale up or SME wanting a 12 week challenge to help you continue to grow and scale, apply now.