Financial support for Australia’s brightest business ideas

fast pitch
Pitch your business idea sign on a memo stick.

St. George Bank has opened the nominations for the St. George Kick Start program, which will provide a $100,000 grant for entrepreneurs who wish to start a new business or turn a concept for the growth and / or diversification of their existing enterprise into a viable revenue stream.

Entrepreneurs and SMEs across NSW, QLD and ACT are qualified to enter the Kick Start program, where 12 finalists will take part in a pitch competition which will happen in Sydney on 22 May.

At stake will be two $40K grants and two $10K runner-up grants for the winning pitches.

“Growing a small business or getting your business idea off the ground is no easy feat, particularly when it comes to funding,” Anthony Mathews, National Head of SME Banking at St.George, said. “Even if you have that moment of inspiration, SMEs and entrepreneurs can find themselves unable to bring their ideas to life without access to funds. Through the St.George Kick Start program, we hope we can help provide a platform that gives them the chance to receive funding and turn their dreams into a reality.”

Entrepreneurs and SMEs who wish to join the program can take part in one of two categories:

  • Category 1: A New Business Idea. For businesses that have recently launched or are about to launch. For those not yet trading, solid plans must be in place.
  • Category 2: An Idea to Grow an Existing Business. For businesses that have been operating and trading for at least 18 months and want to diversify or grow.

Applications are open until 11.59 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (ADST) on Monday 23 March 2020. Additional information can be found on the program website at www.stgeorge.com.au/business/kickstart