PROGRAM
PROGRAM
Startup September is designed to take you from business idea to launch-ready in just one month.
In each session you’ll hear from experts in each field who will guide you on making the right decisions to get your business started. By the end of September, using the accompanying workbook, you’ll have an action-ready plan for you take your first steps.
While the face-to-face events will be held in Darwin, you can join them online and will be able to interact and ask questions just like the people in the room!
Check out the full program below to see what you can expect from each session.
**Please note that The Launch event is separate to the workshops. Make sure you register for them both!**
The Launch
2 September – 5-7 pm
Darwin Botanic Gardens Event Centre
Join us for the Launch event of Startup September 2024! Network with other start-ups and be guided and inspired by business owners who have already walked the walk!
- Welcome from the minister
- Hear from other entrepreneurs at various stages
- Get a sneak-peak of what’s to come in Startup September
- Network and enjoy some drinks and nibbles
Will My Idea Work? Part 1
5 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Before you invest time, effort, and money in your business, you should understand, as best you can, if your idea can be successful. This first workshop will help you build that picture.
- Understanding and identifying your market
- Know your rivals – competitor analysis
- What sets your business apart?
- Business registration, licences, and permits
Idea Validation Workshop
6 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
This workshop is designed for attendees who want simple strategies to validate their idea before building anything.
This is an interactive workshop where you will learn how to ensure that your idea fills a need in the market and will sell – before spending time and money building it.
This is an in-person-only workshop and is limited to a maximum of 20 entrepreneurs, 1 per business. Click the button below to register.
Will My Idea Work? Part 2
10 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Following on from the last session, in this workshop you’ll continue to build a picture of what you’ll need to make make your business successful.
- Choosing your business structure
- Finding the right price
- Starting up on a budget
- Profitability of your business
Sales & Marketing
12 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
No sales = no business. This session will help you identify and reach your target market, give them the product/service they want, and create an environment to make sales.
- Who are my customers? How do I reach them?
- Planning your marketing
- Enhancing customer experience
- Your online presence: get your website right
Social Media Marketing
17 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Love it or hate it, social media is a marketing channel unlike others. Learn from experienced professionals how to use it efficiently and practically to achieve your marketing goals.
- Why social media?
- YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
- Content development and timing
- Planning social media marketing
Digital Tools
19 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Every entrepreneur has to wear many hats when they’re starting out. You’ll be the finance department, marketing department, service delivery expert…It’s easy to be overwhelmed. In this session, you’ll learn about some handy digital tools to make your life less stressful.
- Accounting and finance tools
- Marketing tools
- Productivity tools
Finance
24 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
As a business owner it’s essential that you know how to read your financial statements and be aware of your obligations. In this session you’ll find out how to do exactly that.
- How to fund your business
- Business tax obligations and requirements
- Understanding and managing your cashflow
Your Business Action Plan
26 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Now you know who your target market is, what your product/service will look like, and what finance you’ll need. Now it’s time to plan what you’ll do next!
- Guide to business plans
- Getting things done: your action plan
- Tips for Business Owners
- Taking care of your team: HR tips for your business
Startup September Networking
27 September – 5-6:30 pm
Darwin Innovation Hub
Spend an evening networking with the friends you’ve made during the month and get the chance to chat to some of the experts who’ve helped you along the way.