Aim of grant is to help entrepreneurs "take their business to the next level," says firm
Bolter, a Brisbane-based law firm dedicated to startups, is looking to support the next potential unicorn with a $50,000 grant.
The Little Giant Startup Grant, which consists of $25,000 worth of legal advice from the firm and $25,000 in cash, is aimed at supporting a new business at any stage of the startup process, whether it’s at conception, commercialisation, or release of a product or service within Queensland or throughout Australia.
Simon Playford, head of the Clifford Gouldson Lawyers-established law firm, said the objective of the grant was to help Australian entrepreneurs take their business to the next level.
“People can spend years imagining their dream business, but never actually take the first step,” he said. “Through this grant, we want to encourage those who have already taken that step to take the next one and inspire those who have always wanted to jump on in.”
“We’re looking for applicants with a brilliant idea they need help getting off the ground, or business owners who have gotten the foundations laid but could really benefit from a helpful push,” he said.
The grant is open to all types of emerging businesses, including tech innovators, problem solvers, and family businesses.
The expression of interest (EOI) phase is currently underway and will run until 13 November. Bolter will invite eligible candidates to submit an official application shortly after the conclusion of the EOI phase.
“Our judging panel will whittle this down to the top five finalists who will compete for the main prize at a Pitch Night in March next year, with one lucky business securing themselves the $50,000 prize on the night,” Playford said.
He said, while the grant can only be awarded to one startup, the firm wants all applicants to “walk away with some sort of value.”
“Whether that’s through free legal resources available from Bolter, access to key players in the startup community or by linking startups with potential advisors, both Bolter and the Little Giant Startup Grant are completely driven by a desire to support Aussie startups,” Playford said.
