"You think global. You care about our future. You’re ready to help create a better world for the next generation. We build our global village on the same ethos. You’re already one of us. So join our tribe."


Around 1 in 3 young Australians are unemployed or underemployed – a 40 year high. The To succeed in this ever-changing world, young people have to be resourceful, creative, flexible and globally minded. Developing an entrepreneurial mindset equips young people with these skills.


Upstart in an independent, non-profit and registered charity) has been equipping young people with future-facing skills, knowhow, connections and entrepreneurial mindsets. It takes a global village to fast track a young changemaker. Are you ready to help us fast track the changemakers of tomorrow?

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Who are we looking for from across all sectors?

  • Great communicators (especially with young people)
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Passionate changemakers who’ve enjoyed success (and failures) from your area of expertise
  • Leaders from industry, government and the community
  • Agile thinkers

What’s involved?

There are 2 kinds of mentors:

General Business Mentor

Work with small student teams over a couple of months. Help guide students through Upstart programs as they develop their business concepts. You’ll test their assumptions, providing expertise where required and encouragement.

Time commitment – up to a total of 12 hrs

Specialised Business Mentor

Provide a short, targeted presentation to students in your area of specialization e.g. IP, product development. You might also assist teams periodically.

Time commitment – min. of 1 hr

What’s in it for you or your business?

When you join the Upstart tribe, you tell the world what you stand for.

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Innovation
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Opportunity
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Positive Change
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Optimism

Showcasing your business and industry to Upstart’s bright young minds (your potential team of the future).
Amplifying connections with like-minded innovators and leaders through our unique and diverse network.

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Mentor Q&A

No, if your application is successful Upstart HQ will provide all necessary training through our Upstart Mentor Training.
Approx. 2 – 15 hrs over 3 months
Absolutely not. If technology is your passion why not use it with some of the mentoring sessions and share your love of technology with your students. We know you’ll get a kick out of introducing some new tech to the students.
Yes, all our mentors required a current WCC. If you don’t yet have one, you can apply here.
Most of our mentoring and workshops take place after school hours at our HQ (located at Federal Mills Park, North Geelong or BILDS, Ballarat).