Curtin University has announced the establishment of a new multi-million dollar venture studio aimed at accelerating innovation in the resources industry and developing technologies to support net-zero emissions by 2050.
The $18.6 million platform will focus on nurturing start-ups that are dedicated to pioneering sustainable solutions when it comes to resources.
Assistant Minister for Education, Senator the Hon. Anthony Chisholm, officially launched the Curtin Venture Studio at the Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer showcase event in Perth.
“Western Australia is home to the critical resources the world needs to reach net zero, and this Trailblazer will help tackle some of the sector’s biggest challenges, so we can hit that target,” Assistant Minister Chisholm stated.
The Curtin Venture Studio will provide researchers and founders with access to capital, talent, market expertise, mentorship, and infrastructure to build ‘protoventures’ that will be prototyped as new enterprises based on demand-driven research.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne expressed pride in the university’s role in advancing breakthrough business ideas to support Australia’s decarbonisation efforts.
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to equipping Australian researchers and entrepreneurs with the resources and support necessary to create new opportunities that meet industry demand,” Professor Hayne added.
The studio has selected four projects to kick off its operations, focusing on key challenges in the resources and critical minerals sector.
These projects include SpiroPak, RapidGraphite, Semi Vapor Electrolysis, and DARC, each addressing significant industry needs.
Director of the Trailblazer program, Rohan McDougall, highlighted the studio’s potential to change the landscape of innovation in the resources sector.
“The Curtin Venture Studio will play a critical role in attracting private-sector investment into fledging companies that can enhance Australia’s critical minerals downstream capabilities, specifically in the development of clean technology products,” McDougall explained.
The Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer is a collaborative effort between Curtin University, The University of Queensland, and James Cook University, supported by the Trailblazer Universities Program with funding from the Department of Education and industry partners.
For more information about Trailblazer and the Curtin Venture Studio project, please visit here.
