Scholarships & Discounts

Many hands make light work

One of the biggest challenges in helping small and medium businesses to thrive is that those that need the most help are often those that find impactful and credible business programs with no hidden agendas inaccessible.

At 25eight, this is a key problem to solve and has fuelled our unique methodology and business model. We work with government agencies and Industry organisations to deliver subsidised targeted support programs.

We rigorously research the challenges faced by small business owners, both business challenges and human ones such as neurodiversity, necessity of flexibility, and mental health. This helps us design programs that have a higher chance of completion and impact for all participants.

We also provide discounted access to 25eight programs for the below business leaders.

However, there is still work to be done to provide equity of access and equal chance of success to those that are ordinarily disadvantaged.

Nominate a business for a scholarship today or contact us to have a conversation about how we can create more impact for our commumities together.

Discounts

We offer discounts to all 25eight programs including any part-subsidised partner programs for the following businesses:

Research by Reckon shows that female business ownership is increasing, however, there are still significant disparities for female leaders compared to males. Challenges and barriers, especially in male-dominated industries, mean that female often have to work harder to succeed. Yet, if they do, it will fuel the economic power of Australia. We design programs that can be juggled with other life priorities and help build confidence as well as capability

Realising the potential of Indigenous owned businesses by building capabilities and confidence to create successful businesses will drive change in communities that often face barriers to employment. Future generations will be empowered, inspired by their peers, and have access to meaningful opportunities for work

25eight has been a certified B Corp since 2019 and holds itself to high standards in social and environmental impact. The rigorous assessment process ensures that governance is in place to go beyond profit and create impact. Any certified B Corp is eligible for a discount on a 25eight program so that we can help business that are a force for good, thrive.

Veteran employment research has highlighted that numerous complexities impact the smooth transition from Defence into civilian life; manifesting in high rates of unemployment amongst ex service personnel and poor health outcomes for many; with the impacts even greater for those with mental health issues and protracted medical claims. Entrepreneurship provides veterans with an opportunity for decent work and are also more likely to employ other veterans.

Scholarships

Available Scholarships

25eight Scholarship

Funded by the 25eight Scholarship Fund that is part funded by Industry and Industry Mentors, this Scholarship provides four places in 2025 to our Industry Growth Business Accelerator (one per cohort).

The Scholarship is awarded to a business that shows great potential in creating economic outcomes for underserved communities.

Value: Fully subsidised place on the Industry Growth Business Accelerator

Eligibility: Australian based business to business companies subscribed to the ICN gateway.

Timeline: Applications are open throughout the year. Shortlisted applicants are notified within two weeks and interviews held four weeks prior to the commencement of the cohort.

Application: Please complete the application form below to be considered for the next cohort.

*Please note applicants must be a subscriber or sign up for free membership to the Industry Capability Network gateway to be eligible for this program. Click here to sign up

Regional Growth Project Scholarship

Funded by the Regional Growth Project this Scholarship provides access to 25eight’s Level Up for Small Businesses

The Scholarship is awarded to a business that is located in a regional area and whose leader(s) demonstrates passion and determination to create change for their local community through entrepreneurship.

Value: 25eight’s Level Up Service up to $2,995.

Eligibility: Australian based regional businesses

Timeline: Applications are open throughout the year. Shortlisted applicants are notified within two weeks and interviews held at a scheduled time. Timing of the service can be determined by the applicant on successful award of the scholarship.

Application: Please complete the application form below to be considered for this scholarship.

MakerLauncher Pitch Scholarship

Funded by MakerLauncher to provide support to founders with a technical background who have an innovative solution that has a positive impact on people or planet.

The Scholarship is awarded to a technical founder that struggles to articulate the value of their solution and bring their idea to market.

Four scholarships are awarded each year. Two scholarships for 25eight’s Six Pillars of Pitching Program and two scholarships for 25eight’s Startup Pitch Training Program

Value: Fully funded

Eligibility: Founders with a developed solution ready to go to market.

Timeline: Applications are open throughout the year and scholarships awarded at the end of each Quarter.