Hall & Wilcox launches 2024 edition of Frank Lab accelerator program

Hall & Wilcox is excited to announce the launch of the 2024 edition of Frank Lab, the firm’s startup accelerator program. Frank Lab 2024 is set to empower innovative businesses through a comprehensive two-day intensive, scheduled to take place in Melbourne on 14 and 15 November 2024. Following the intensive, participants will take part in a four-week ongoing support program, providing structured guidance as they begin to apply their learnings. This year’s program is being supported by Skalata Ventures and One Roof. 

Frank Lab is Hall & Wilcox’s flagship accelerator program, meticulously designed to support startups that address significant commercial or social challenges. The program aims to fast-track the growth of both for-profit and impact-driven startups, helping them achieve their milestones more swiftly and navigate the complexities of scaling in a competitive market. 

Each year, approximately 10 startups are selected to participate in Frank Lab. These startups benefit from access to industry specialists, investors and mentors. The 2024 program will feature breakout sessions with advisors, invaluable networking opportunities and targeted workshops designed to enhance participants’ growth and readiness for future challenges. 

Frank Lab 2024 is open to startups that:                

• solve a genuine commercial problem or serve a significant social need;
• have traction with customers or market validation;
• are preparing to raise capital;
• are looking to scale or expand into new markets;
• have a large market opportunity, with the potential to generate over AUD 100 million in annual gross profit; and
• offer a product with operational leverage at scale, such as cloud-based software, mobile application or hardware. 

Applicants will be evaluated on the eligibility criteria, as well as their problem-solving approach, team dynamics, customer traction, potential legal and professional support needs, and their ability to attract capital from VCs, private investors and angel networks. 

In addition to the two-day intensive, successful applicants will receive benefits to use until 30 June 2025, including $5,000 in legal services, an experienced lawyer as a trusted advisor, regular meetings to prioritise legal and commercial needs, access to the firm’s extensive accounting and investor networks, as well as office space, technology and Smarter Law solutions. 

Frank Lab Sponsoring Partner Jacqui Barrett shared her enthusiasm for the 2024 program, saying, ‘Hall & Wilcox is dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of the startup ecosystem. Frank Lab exemplifies our commitment to giving back by assisting promising startups in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals through practical, responsive business solutions. We’re excited to partner with Skalata Ventures and One Roof to deliver this year’s program, bringing together a wealth of expertise and resources to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.’

Applications are open on the firm’s website until 27 September 2024. Offers will be made to successful applicants by 18 October 2024.