Start-up ecosystem in Victoria

Alt text: $129B Ecosystem valuation; 3,500+ Startups; In 2023 62% of VC investments were in health | fintech | real-estate; First half of 2023 $668M VC investments raised. 2nd in Australia for VC investment raised

Welcome to Victoria, where you can access one of the world’s most exciting and rapidly growing startup ecosystems.

Whether you’re based here in Australia or overseas, you’ll find a vibrant network of founders, investors, and government-backed initiatives, providing critical funding, industry connections, and resources to support business growth and scalability.

Explore how Victoria’s thriving ecosystem can accelerate your growth, investment, or expansion into some of the world’s most transformative industries.

Key statistics:

  • Victoria’s startup ecosystem is one of the world’s fastest-growing, valued at $129 billion
  • Victoria is home to over 3,500 technology driven startups and 18 unicorns
  • Victoria’s early-stage ecosystem has more than doubled since 2022 – up 62% to A$38.4 billion
  • Melbourne is ranked #32, according to Startup Genome. This is on a par with Zurich and Munich
  • High-growth startups span sectors like fintech, biotech, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing

Victoria has produced 18 unicorns!

  • A cloud guru
  • Aconnex
  • Afterpay
  • Airwallex
  • Carsales.com.au
  • Clinuvel
  • Culture Amp
  • Envato
  • Judo Capital
  • Message Media
  • Mesoblast
  • MYOB
  • PEXA
  • Polynovo
 
  • Rea Group
  • Redbubble
  • Seek
  • Telix

Introducing LaunchVic

LaunchVic, Victoria’s startup agency, fuels the growth of the state’s startup sector by building a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem. Through targeted investments in programs, events, and research, LaunchVic connects entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and global networks.

LauchVic - Victoria's startup agency fuelling the startup state

The Victorian Start-up Ecosystem Dashboard

Dealroom Victoria is a free, real-time platform that provides founders like you with valuable data on Victoria’s startup ecosystem. It is managed by LaunchVic.

With Dealroom Victoria you can explore local resources, identify partners, and gain insights to help you thrive in Melbourne’s dynamic startup scene.

  • Start-up companies: Connect with peers and potential collaborators in your industry.
  • Investors: Find investors who align with your vision and stage of growth.
  • Funding: Access information on funding sources, from venture capital to government grants.
  • Workspaces: Locate co-working spaces and innovation hubs where your team can grow.
  • Accelerators: Explore programs designed to fast-track your startup’s success.
  • Universities: Leverage research, talent, and partnerships from Victoria’s top institutions.
  • Corporates: Build partnerships with established companies that support innovation.

Government initiatives and funding programs for start-ups

The Victorian Government has committed significant support to the startup ecosystem, largely through LaunchVic, established in 2016. Key programs that may be available to you include:

Case studies

SunGreenH2 revolutionises zero emissions in Melbourne

Cutting edge clean energy startup SunGreenH2, has strategically positioned its R&D and manufacturing operations in Melbourne.

Bukalapak taps Melbourne for talent

Indonesia’s first publicly listed tech unicorn, Bukalapak has chosen Melbourne to establish its first international base and technology hub.

Ready to take your start up to the next level?

Contact us  to discover how Victoria's start up ecosystem can fuel your success or explore your industry now!

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