Community: Fishburners

SYDNEY STARTUP & SCALE-UP HUB…

Fishburners, Australia’s largest non-profit startup organisation, is dedicated to empowering startups and fostering their growth beyond mere ideas and workspace. Their unwavering commitment lies in supporting entrepreneurs throughout their journey, providing them with an extensive array of resources, education, mentoring, and a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. By connecting, learning, and collaborating within this community, entrepreneurs can bring their ideas to life and establish successful businesses.

At Fishburners, the impact of their efforts is truly remarkable. Serving as the host to Australia’s largest startup community, encompassing 450 startups and 800 entrepreneurs spread across the Sydney and Brisbane hubs, as well as remote and regional locations, Fishburners provides a fertile ground for innovation to flourish. A recent survey conducted highlights the tangible outcomes of their support: in 2019 alone, Fishburners’ members achieved an impressive $142 million in sales, raised approximately $58 million in investments, and contributed to the creation of close to 1,000 jobs.

Fishburners’ dedication to launching and nurturing startups extends far beyond the provision of workspace. Their holistic approach, offering invaluable resources, educational opportunities, mentorship, and a vibrant community, has resulted in substantial success stories within Australia’s startup ecosystem. By empowering entrepreneurs and facilitating their path to success, Fishburners continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of innovative businesses.

Fishburners, a pioneering force in the startup industry, has established itself as a leader and a trailblazer. Being one of the first dedicated startup spaces, it has become a thriving hub for more than 2,000 startup entities that have been part of its operations since its inception. Among its notable alumni are well-known companies such as Koala, GoCatch, DesignCrowd (a graphic design marketplace), ConX, Code Camp, Tinybeans, Madpaws, Jayride, GradConnection, and Hyper Anna. These success stories showcase the effectiveness of Fishburners’ support and resources in helping startups grow and thrive.

In addition to its impressive roster of startups, Fishburners is proud to be the home of Australia’s largest event space dedicated to startups and entrepreneurship. Since its establishment, Fishburners has played host to an astounding number of over 5,000 startup-focused events. This signifies the pivotal role Fishburners plays in fostering a vibrant and collaborative ecosystem where entrepreneurs can connect, learn, and share knowledge.

Fishburners’ status as a leading startup space, coupled with its extensive alumni network and its contribution to the startup event scene, solidifies its reputation as a key player in the Australian startup community. By providing an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration, Fishburners continues to shape and drive the growth of startups and entrepreneurship in the region.

SUPPORT

At Heels Agency, we share a deep passion for innovation and startups, and we are dedicated to providing exceptional resources to empower entrepreneurs in building and growing their brands. In the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly crucial for us to come together and support one another. As an independent business, and as a collective business community, we recognise the importance of initiating change and fostering growth during these uncertain times.

The current global marketplace presents us with unique challenges and uncertainties. The ever-changing demands and dynamics of the market make it particularly difficult for both existing and first-time entrepreneurs to navigate. This has had a profound impact on startups, stifling creativity, and even discouraging new founders from taking the leap into entrepreneurship.

However, it is precisely during these challenging times that we must unite and support each other. By fostering a community of collaboration and sharing, we can overcome obstacles together. At Heels Agency, we believe that through collective efforts, we can create an environment that encourages innovation, resilience, and the emergence of new ideas.

We understand the struggles that entrepreneurs are facing, and we are committed to providing the necessary support, resources, and guidance to help them adapt and thrive. By coming together as a business community, we can collectively drive change, inspire growth, and foster an atmosphere of resilience and creativity.

In our interview with Nicole O’Brien, the CEO of Fishburners, we gained valuable insights into how entrepreneurs can navigate challenges and support each other during these uncertain times. Nicole provided a comprehensive overview of the exceptional services, outstanding facilities, and numerous benefits that come with joining the dynamic Fishburners community.

SERVICES

DEMI: WHAT RANGE OF SERVICES DOES FISHBURNERS OFFER ENTREPRENEURS AND STARTUPS?

At Fishburners, we provide a diverse array of services designed to empower entrepreneurs and foster the growth of startups. Our offerings include state-of-the-art entrepreneurial community workspaces, a wide range of valuable resources, an extensive line-up of events, comprehensive educational programs, expert mentoring, and unwavering world-class support.

Our entrepreneurial community workspaces are thoughtfully curated to provide startups with a collaborative and inspiring environment. These spaces serve as a hub where innovative minds can connect, share ideas, and collaborate on exciting projects.

In addition to the physical workspace, we offer a wealth of resources to equip startups with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. Our resources cover a wide range of topics, including business planning, market research, funding options, legal considerations, and more. We strive to ensure that entrepreneurs have access to the information they need at every step of their journey.

INVOLVED

DEMI: WHAT ARE THE STEPS OR OPPORTUNITIES FOR US TO GET INVOLVED WITH FISHBURNERS?

Fishburners provides multiple pathways to get involved. Individuals can easily become members of our physical spaces, where they can engage with a vibrant entrepreneurial community and leverage our exceptional workspaces. Alternatively, joining our online Founders network offers founders the same benefits as regular members, with convenient access to member and company directories, as well as a network of mentors. Regardless of the chosen path, Fishburners offers a supportive and dynamic ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to excel and achieve their business goals.

PROGRAMS

DEMI: COULD YOU PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE TYPES OF PROGRAMS YOU OFFER?

At Fishburners, we are proud to offer a range of exciting and pioneering programs designed to support entrepreneurs and professionals at various stages of their journey. Here are some of our notable programs:

1. ‘Future Up’: This program serves as the ultimate playbook for launching your startup. It provides a comprehensive course, personalised coaching, access to cutting-edge tools, and engagement with our wider community. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your existing business, ‘Future Up’ equips you with the knowledge, resources, and connections to accelerate your startup’s growth.
2. ‘Ideate Up’: For individuals seeking to make a greater impact and find a sense of purpose in their careers, ‘Ideate Up’ is the perfect program. It caters to those feeling stuck in a professional rut, offering guidance and inspiration to unlock their creative potential. Through this program, participants explore innovative ideas, develop problem-solving skills, and gain the confidence to pursue impactful ventures.
3. ‘Fempowered’: ‘Fempowered’ is a must-do program designed specifically for diverse women entrepreneurs. It is a six-month Launch Pad program that supports women in turning their viable ideas into sustainable businesses. Through a combination of mentorship, education, and tailored support, participants gain the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the startup landscape successfully.

In addition to these specialised programs, we offer one-on-one mentoring opportunities as part of our memberships. This allows entrepreneurs to receive personalised guidance from experienced mentors who can provide insights and support tailored to their specific needs.

We are dedicated to providing further program details and assisting you in finding the right fit for your goals and aspirations. Feel free to explore our program offerings on our website or reach out to our team for more information on how to get involved.

UNIQUE

DEMI: WHAT SETS FISHBURNERS APART & MAKES IT A UNIQUE PLATFORM FOR STARTUPS AND ENTREPRENEURS?

At Fishburners, our purpose is to simplify the most challenging aspects of entrepreneurship and support startups in their journey towards success. As Australia’s leading startup community, we are a not-for-profit organisation entirely committed to the growth and prosperity of our startups. We achieve this by offering a comprehensive range of resources, educational opportunities, expert mentoring, and a vibrant community of like-minded individuals to connect and collaborate with.

Our aim is to provide startups with the best possible tools and support to bring their ideas to life and thrive in the competitive business landscape. We understand the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and our dedicated team is here to ensure that you have access to the resources and guidance needed to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

By becoming a part of the Fishburners community, you will gain access to an extensive network of experienced mentors and industry professionals who are passionate about helping startups succeed. Through workshops, events, and networking opportunities, you will have ample chances to connect, learn, and grow alongside other driven individuals who share your entrepreneurial spirit.

As a not-for-profit organisation, our sole focus is on supporting the success of startups. This means that our resources and services are tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive the highest quality assistance on your entrepreneurial journey.

FEATURES

DEMI: WHAT UNIQUE FEATURES & RESOURCES DOES FISHBURNERS OFFER ENTREPRENEURS, SETTING IT APART AS A PREMIER PLATFORM FOR THEIR SUCCESS?

Fishburners offers a range of unique features and services that distinguish it as a premier platform for startups and entrepreneurs. Here are some of the key highlights:

1. Curated Support: Fishburners provides curated support from a qualified team of experts who are dedicated to helping startups succeed. This support is tailored to address the specific needs and challenges faced by entrepreneurs, ensuring they receive guidance and resources to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
2. Programmed Initiatives: Fishburners organises various initiatives to foster collaboration, networking, and knowledge-sharing among its members. These initiatives include roundtables and think tanks, which provide opportunities for startups to connect with peers, share insights, and collaborate on innovative projects.
3. Weekly Learning and Development Events: Fishburners hosts regular learning and development events to equip entrepreneurs with valuable skills, knowledge, and insights. These events cover a wide range of topics relevant to startups, including industry trends, business strategies, marketing techniques, and more.
4. Advisory Sessions: Fishburners offers advisory sessions where startups can seek guidance and expertise in areas such as legal, accounting, and marketing. These sessions connect entrepreneurs with professionals who can provide valuable advice and support to help them make informed decisions and navigate various aspects of running a business.
5. Mentoring: Fishburners provides mentorship programs to guide and enhance the success of startups. Mentors, who are experienced professionals in their respective fields, offer guidance, support, and industry insights to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges, refine their strategies, and achieve their business objectives.
6. Access to Investors: Fishburners provides access to a network of investors who are actively seeking investment opportunities in startups. This gives entrepreneurs the chance to connect with potential investors, pitch their ideas, and secure funding to fuel their growth.
7. Pitch Readiness: Fishburners assists startups in becoming pitch-ready by providing resources, feedback, and coaching on crafting and delivering compelling pitches. This helps entrepreneurs effectively communicate their value proposition and attract potential investors or customers.
8. World-Class Educational Programs: Fishburners offers world-class educational programs designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the startup ecosystem. These programs cover a wide range of topics, from business fundamentals to advanced strategies, providing valuable insights and practical tools to drive success.

In summary, Fishburners stands out by providing curated support, programmed initiatives for collaboration and networking, regular learning and development events, advisory sessions, mentorship programs, access to investors, pitch readiness support, and world-class educational programs. These unique features contribute to the overall ecosystem at Fishburners, empowering startups to grow, innovate, and succeed.

CANDIDATE

DEMI: WHO WOULD BE CONSIDERED THE IDEAL CANDIDATE TO JOIN FISHBURNERS?

The ideal candidate for Fishburners is an individual who aspires to build a highly successful business and recognises the value of leveraging the collective knowledge and experiences of others. They are driven and motivated to learn from those who have already embarked on the entrepreneurial journey and are eager to connect with like-minded individuals who are on a similar path of growth and innovation.

This candidate understands the importance of having access to a global network of partners, mentors, resources, and team members. They recognise that by tapping into this network, they can gain valuable insights, support, and collaboration opportunities that can accelerate their business’s success.

CHALLENGES

DEMI: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES THAT NEW FOUNDERS TYPICALLY ENCOUNTER AS THEY EMBARK ON THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY?

One of the greatest challenges entrepreneurs face is often the lack of support when starting a business. Going solo can be tough, and trying to handle every aspect of running a business alone is virtually impossible.

To stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends, startups require access to a vast network of investors, talented individuals, and advisors. Fortunately, Fishburners excels in providing exactly that.

Fishburners offers a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs can tap into an extensive network of investors who are actively seeking investment opportunities. This network provides startups with the opportunity to connect with potential investors, pitch their ideas, and secure the funding they need to fuel their growth.

Moreover, Fishburners provides access to a pool of talented individuals who can contribute their skills, knowledge, and expertise to help startups succeed. Whether it’s finding the right team members, collaborating with industry experts, or receiving guidance from experienced mentors, Fishburners offers a rich talent pool and advisory network.

KEY POINTS

DEMI: WHAT ARE THE KEY POINTS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO ACHIEVING SUCCESS IN BUSINESS?

In today’s competitive landscape, becoming a successful startup and entrepreneur demands more than just a great idea. It requires a combination of key qualities such as commitment, courage, resilience, and the ability to leverage the support and resources available. In this era of abundant knowledge and empowering resources, the path to success has become more accessible, provided one possesses the right mindset and utilises available opportunities effectively.

The key ingredients for entrepreneurial success lie in understanding the purpose behind building a business, identifying the target audience, defining the unique value proposition, and formulating a sustainable market delivery plan. When supported effectively, these fundamental factors can evolve into intelligent and scalable strategies that pave the way for market domination.

ADVICE

DEMI: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ASPIRING NEW FOUNDERS ON THEIR JOURNEY?

To maximise your chances of success in business, it is crucial to embark on thorough research, put forth your best efforts, continuously learn from industry leaders, and always keep your purpose at the forefront of your endeavours. By combining these elements, you can build a strong foundation for your business and increase your likelihood of achieving your goals.

Give it a go. Do your research. Give it your all. Learn from the best. Keep your purpose at the centre.

COVID-19

DEMI: HOW HAS FISHBURNERS RESPONDED TO THE CHALLENGES POSED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC & WHAT MEASURES HAVE YOU IMPLEMENTED TO SUPPORT & ASSIST YOUR MEMBERS DURING THIS TIME?

In recognition of the immense challenges faced by our valued members during these trying times, we are committed to providing them with unwavering support. To start, we have taken the initiative to waive billing for a few months for our physical members. However, we firmly believe that our community extends far beyond mere physical spaces.

As Australia’s largest and most diverse startup community, Fishburners has always embraced inclusive and modernised working methods. We have long offered virtual community hubs, remote access, and online communication channels to foster collaboration and connection. In response to the current situation, we have further enhanced our remote working integration and expanded our online resources. As part of this effort, we are offering a free version of our online ‘Founders Platform’, enabling startups to access valuable tools and support.

Moreover, we have recently launched ‘At Home with Fishburners’, a platform designed to benefit the broader entrepreneurial community across Australia. This platform ensures that everyone can receive a steady stream of valuable content to stay inspired and informed.

With our online virtual channels and platforms, Fishburners has successfully maintained close and continuous virtual contact with our members, ensuring uninterrupted support during this crisis. Despite the challenges, we have remained committed to hosting a variety of events, workshops, community groups, and roundtable discussions. These virtual gatherings have enabled our community to stay connected, fostering the exchange of ideas and expertise among members. By leveraging our existing online infrastructure, we have been able to adapt swiftly and provide ongoing support to our members in these unprecedented times.

At Fishburners, we are deeply committed to supporting our members and the wider entrepreneurial community through these challenging times by providing both practical and valuable resources.

CONNECTED

DEMI: HOW CRUCIAL DO YOU CONSIDER IT FOR ENTREPRENEURS TO STAY CONNECTED & ENGAGED WITH THEIR NETWORKS & COMMUNITIES DURING THESE UNPRECEDENTED TIMES?

Maintaining connectivity with team members, mentors, and other stakeholders is crucial for businesses, both new and established, during the crisis. It ensures that everyone remains aligned, engaged, and supported, despite the physical distancing measures in place.

At Fishburners, we have been privileged to have the means to facilitate such connectivity through regular virtual communication and content delivery. However, we recognize the importance of direct contact and eagerly anticipate the easing of social distancing restrictions, which will allow for more personal and face-to-face interactions.

By staying connected, businesses can foster collaboration, share knowledge and resources, and provide the necessary support to navigate through these challenging times successfully. It enables a sense of community and promotes a collective effort in overcoming obstacles and finding innovative solutions.

ADVICE

DEMI: WHAT ADICE & TIPS WOULD YOU OFFER TO BUSINESS OWNERS & EMPLOYEES TO NAVIGATE & PERSEVERE THROUGH THE CHALLENGES POSED BY THE CURRED CRISIS?

In the midst of the current global challenges, it is crucial to recognise that we are all in this together. As regulations, customer needs, and emerging markets continue to evolve, the key to sustaining and growing a successful business lies in maintaining honest, sincere, and receptive communication. By actively engaging with your customers and stakeholders, understanding their evolving requirements, and effectively addressing their concerns, you can adapt your business strategies and offerings to meet their changing expectations. This commitment to open communication will not only enable you to navigate through uncertain times but also foster stronger customer relationships and fuel the growth of your business.

FISHBURNERS

Fishburners is your go-to destination for transforming your unique business idea into a thriving success. We understand the power of a strong community and the drive to get things done. That’s why we offer high-quality resources, top-notch education, invaluable mentoring, and most importantly, a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about entrepreneurship.

If you’ve been contemplating your business idea for a while and are eager to bring it to life but lack the necessary skills or resources, Fishburners is here to support you. We believe in the potential of every idea and the ability of individuals to make a difference. Our community thrives on the collective power of people coming together to instigate change and create impactful ventures.

By joining Fishburners, you gain access to a wealth of resources and educational programs designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to launch and grow your business. Our experienced mentors provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs, helping you navigate the challenges and opportunities that come your way.

But Fishburners is more than just a platform for individual growth. It’s a vibrant community of entrepreneurs who share your passion, drive, and determination. Here, you’ll find a supportive network of like-minded individuals who understand the journey of building a business. Collaborate, learn, and be inspired by the collective knowledge and experience of our community.

At Fishburners, we believe that your entrepreneurial future starts and grows here. We are here to empower you with the resources, connections, and skills necessary to turn your idea into a flourishing success. Join us and embark on your entrepreneurial journey with the confidence that you have the support and resources to make it happen.

We support the ‘get shit done’ attitude of our members and the collective power of people to instigate change.

Fishburners provides high quality resources, education, mentoring, and the valuable connection to a community of like-minded people to turn your idea into a flourishing success.

Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD at Tech Central, Bridge & York Street.

Fishburners Startup Hub: Level 2 & 3 York Street, Wynyard NSW 2000 WWW.FISHBURNERS.ORG

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