Program Overview

Introduction to the Green Light Accelerator Program

The Green Light accelerator program is dedicated to supporting the development of algae biotech solutions across a broad range of industries in NSW. This program aims to bring NSW to the forefront of algae-based innovation in Australia.

Program Overview

The Green Light Accelerator Program is a 13-week program running from July to October 2025. It is designed to support the development of algae biotech solutions, products, and services in NSW across various industries, including innovations to optimize algae growth and deliver biomass to the wholesale market, or products and services using micro or macroalgae for aqua-and-agriculture, bioproducts, food, and materials.

Program Details

• The program leverages the algae biotechnology research strength of the UTS Climate Change Cluster (C3) to support the research and development of algae-related projects put forward by NSW small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups (including entrepreneurs), prioritizing projects underpinned by an approach to sustainability.
• Successful applicants will receive various individualized support and guidance over the 3-month program, including:
  • Curated entrepreneurial support across 3 months (July-October 2025), targeting business goals.
  • Access to research mentorship from leading algae experts at the University of Technology Sydney's Climate Change Cluster.
  • Up to AUD 10,000 in seed-funding.
  • 6 Months membership to UTS Startups, including desk space, networking, & community events and workshops.
  • Connection to workshops and networking opportunities with industry and innovation leaders, academics, and entrepreneurial experts within the UTS Innovation Ecosystem.

Program Outcomes

Upon success in the program, teams will receive seed funding and comprehensive support from UTS. Additionally, they will gain access to selected masterclasses, networking events, and industry gatherings offered through UTS and associated organizations. The graduating teams will leave the program with a plan for further investigation, research, scaling, or production.

Featured Teams and Projects

The program has featured several innovative teams and projects, including:

• Albon: A climate startup using algae to clean polluted water and fight climate change.
• Alliga: Provides prosthetic breasts, adhesives, dilators, lubrication, and a community for women to take back their mojo after cancer treatment.
• Good for Good: Bringing algae to the table—and into your kid's lunchboxes.
• East Coast Algae: With their short film Light Eaters, which reveals the hidden world of microalgae and phytoplankton.
• SeaHide: Produces textiles from seaweed waste to replace synthetic materials in circulation and simultaneously reduce the environmental impact across the value chain.

Conclusion

The Green Light Accelerator Program is a unique initiative that supports the development of innovative algae biotech solutions in NSW. With its comprehensive support system, seed funding, and networking opportunities, the program provides a platform for entrepreneurs and start-ups to bring their ideas to life and contribute to a more sustainable future.