KPMG Australia and Stone & Chalk are on the hunt for innovative startups to join the fourth cohort of the Future Technology Program. This initiative is concentrated on forming solutions in intelligent performance to address the problematic economic climate putting severe pressure on productivity, business performance, overheads, and revenue growth.
The program's focus will be early-stage founders developing technology that assists businesses, governments, and other organisations in maximising and enhancing performance and productivity across all operational areas. Since its launch in 2022, fifteen startups have already taken advantage of the program, gaining support to raise capital, penetrate new markets, and captivate new customer segments, which help facilitate long-term success.
The Future Technology Program exemplifies a harmonious union, combining Australia's largest innovation community at Stone & Chalk with KPMG Australia's extensive expertise and knowledge. Collectively, they offer startups unparalleled access to strategic assistance to fast-track their growth trajectory.
"Most organisations are eager to drive strategic growth, without compromising customer experience or business performance," stated Karen Parkes, Partner-In-Charge, Customer and Operations Consulting. She mentioned that the current times are challenging due to relentless cost pressures, competitive markets, and escalating customer expectations. Clients need an AI-enabled, data-driven approach to continuously enhance performance and deliver results.
Five startup founders and their teams selected for the program will benefit from a complimentary 12-month residency at one of Stone & Chalk's startup hubs located in Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide. They will receive guidance and support from an array of KPMG mentors and industry leaders, who can introduce clients and facilitate relevant industry conversations to provide startups with the resources and backing they require for growth.
The program welcomes applications from startups creating technology in intelligent performance, such as solutions driving operational excellence, business performance improvement, service delivery reinvention, next-generation business transformation solutions, business intelligence, and intelligent automation, amongst others. Eligibility criteria state businesses must be at Series A or an earlier funding stage, and need to be operating in Australia at the time of application.
"We're thrilled to play a part in nurturing the next generation of startups who will shape the future," expressed Stone & Chalk Group CEO, Chris Kirk. Encouraging early-stage startups to tackle the most pressing challenges faced by contemporary businesses is crucial in enabling organisations to maximise and improve performance and productivity across all areas of their operations, he added.
Applications for the fourth cohort of the Future Technology Program are now open, with a closing date on 26 April. Offers will be made in early June, and the program will commence in July.