Travel and tourism Startups are plentiful but finding the good ones is always a challenge. But not anymore.
Last year, Slingshot launched Horizons, a tourism industry accelerator backed by Brisbane Airport Corporation, Amadeus IT and the Queensland Government’s $650 million Advance Queensland initiative. The program was such a success, it opened again for applications early this year.
Fast-forward through the application and pitching process, Slingshot has selected a massive 20 Startup companies to participate, more number than any other accelerator they have run before.
“This is an unusually large accelerator cohort, which can be attributed to the outstanding quality and depth of applications received.”
““We see thousands of applications from entrepreneurs every year for our various programs. This accelerator, which is now in its second year, aims to develop Queensland into the world’s global hub for innovation in travel and tourism by facilitating the development of compelling business models and by helping local and regional Startups secure the traction, viability, investment and partnership opportunities needed to succeed in this challenging space.” said Ben Hutt, Slingshot’s Chief Program Director.
The 20 Startups selected will participate in a 12-week program which commenced on the 24th of September and will have two cohorts running simultaneously. One in Brisbane and one in the resort city of Cairns to better serve regional entrepreneurs. They will receive bespoke training and resources, a support team of mentors, access to co-working space and potential seed and follow-on investment.
More than half of the cohort come from the state of Queensland which is indicative of their local tourism knowledge. Go Fish Australia, one of the Startups is also the recent winner of the Queensland Industry Tourism Council awards for best new Startup talent.
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