Optus launches Future Makers social change accelerator program to help vulnerable young Australians

Optus has launched a new accelerator program that will help entrepreneurs, social enterprises and not-for-profit organisations with technology-backed ideas on how to deal with the challenges faced by young Australians, bring these dreams to life.

The Future Makers program, which aims to take forward digital innovation that could change the social landscape, will shortlist 12 candidates following an application process, and partner them with industry mentors and networking opportunities to help develop and polish their ideas.

The shortlisted candidates will be chosen by merit of their technology-focused ideas, which must address one of the four criteria:

1. Employabilty - ideas that help young Australians access better career options and remove barriers faced duing transition to employment
2. Education - ideas that narrow education gaps for disadvantaged youths
3. Cyber Education & Safety - ideas that address challenges faced on and from social media
4. Wellbeing - ideas that enhance mental well-being and increase resilience

The candidates will present their ideas and pitches to a selected panel of experts, before six winners are selected and granted up to $50,000 each. This funding must be used within six months for the sole purpose of advancing their pioneering idea in shaping the future for disadvantaged youth.

“Investing in digital innovation and building a better future for Australia’s vulnerable youth is a key focus. As the technological landscape continues to shift and evolve, it’s essential that we provide support to those working hard to make a real difference in this area," said Helen Maisano, Associate Director, Corporate Social Responsibility at Optus .

“We’re mainly looking for game-changers with ideas and systems that are almost ready to go.”