Women across the Hunter and Central Coast are being invited to apply for 2026 FLIP program at the University of Newcastle’s Integrated Innovation Network (I2N), with submissions due by Sunday 17 May.
The 10-week program is designed for early-stage founders and aspiring leaders, offering structured support to move from concept through to validated ideas or clearer leadership pathways. Participation does not require any university affiliation, with eligibility based on location, age and stage of idea or career.
The program is open to individuals or teams of up to three, provided all participants identify as women and meet the eligibility criteria, including having received less than $500,000 in external investment for any business idea.
A structured program built around real constraints
FLIP runs from June 11 to August 13, combining face-to-face sessions at the University of Newcastle’s I2N Hub in Honeysuckle with online delivery via Zoom. Weekly workshops are supported by coaching sessions and short peer learning meetings, alongside self-paced work.
The format has been designed to accommodate participants managing work, family or other commitments, using a mix of fixed workshop days and flexible learning. Attendance across workshops, coaching and peer sessions is expected, with additional time required to apply learnings between sessions.
Network, expertise and program partners
Participants will join an established network built over a decade, connecting with almost 5,000 entrepreneurs, mentors and industry contributors through the I2N community.
Program delivery includes direct access to coaches and facilitators working alongside participants to develop problem-solving capability and venture-building skills. The program also connects participants to external support, including intellectual property and trademark guidance through Davies Collison Cave.
Financial backing includes support from the MacDougall Foundation, which will award $10,000 to one team at the end of the program to assist in progressing their idea.
Track record and outcomes
To date, FLIP has accelerated and incubated 188 teams, contributing to the creation of more than 280 jobs. The program focuses on early validation, allowing participants to test ideas before committing substantial funding or scaling efforts.
Applicants do not need a fully formed concept. The program also accepts participants aiming to build leadership capability to join or contribute to scalable ventures.
Events supporting the application process
Two in-person events are scheduled ahead of the program start to support potential applicants.
A Founders Panel on April 29 at the Honeysuckle Hub will feature participants from the inaugural cohort sharing their experiences, including lessons learned and challenges encountered.
A speed networking event on Thursday May 14 will provide structured opportunities to connect with other participants and explore collaboration options ahead of the application deadline.
Participation criteria and expectations
Applicants must be over 18, based in or planning to be based in the Hunter or Central Coast, and able to commit to the full 10-week schedule. Agencies and consultancies are not eligible.
The program is positioned for those who are motivated to develop ideas or leadership capability, with an expectation that participants are open to feedback and willing to engage with a cohort-based learning environment.
With delivery centred at Honeysuckle and participation open beyond university networks, I2N continues to build a pipeline of founders and leaders working across sectors, contributing to the region’s broader push to diversify industry and create new business activity.
