Hydrogen Elevate
An intensive two-day workshop designed to help early-stage startup, SMEs and founders validate their markets, refine their value proposition, and align their innovations with the hydrogen sector needs.
This isn’t just another workshop. It’s your launchpad.
Are you exploring solutions that help accelerate the uptake of hydrogen in Australia?
Australia is rapidly developing its hydrogen sector and needs innovative deep tech solutions across the entire value chain. Whether you're an aspiring innovator, early-stage startup or early-career founder exploring solutions in scaling hydrogen production, storage, distribution/transportation to industry usage, this fully-funded workshop provides the commercialisation support to bridge the gap between your technology and industry demand.
Across two packed days, you’ll work alongside industry leaders, seasoned entrepreneurs, and commercialisation experts who know what it takes to grow an idea into a venture that’s fundable, scalable, and grant-ready.
Designed specifically for deep tech innovation in hydrogen, this workshop is funded by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources and powered by the Australian Hydrogen Council (AHC).
During this in-person 2-day intensive workshop, you will get:
- A clear understanding of the hydrogen value chain and where you fit in
- A well-defined value proposition that resonates with both industry and investors
- The confidence and tools to become “grant ready” and investment worthy
- A network of mentors, advisors, and potential partners
It also includes a supporting e-learning module to prepare you for the hands-on workshop.
🗓️ Tuesday 24th - Wednesday 25th February 2026
📍 Cicada Innovations in South Eveleigh, NSW.
Who should apply?
Early-stage startups, SMEs or technologists* working on innovation around scaling capabilities along the hydrogen value chain from production, storage, distribution/transportation to expanding use case for industry end users – anyone looking to transform science and engineering into sustainable commercial impact.
*Applicants must be an “IGP eligible SME/startup”. If not, please visit Industry Growth Program | business.gov.au to submit your application for IGP eligibility. You can still submit an EOI to Elevate while keeping us updated on your progress with the IGP eligibility.
Grains Elevate is an immersive in person 2-day workshop with a supporting e-learning course designed to empower deep tech startups to explore their potential for commercialisation in the Grains industry.
This opportunity is fully funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).
This course will give you unique access to experts, entrepreneurs and operators who will provide specialist advice on how to build a deep tech business in the Grains industry.
You will gain the knowledge and confidence to:
- Navigate the grains industry value chain
- Define and articulate your unique value proposition
- Connect with farmers and growers
- Become "grant ready" and plan ahead
- Build partnerships and find investors
To apply for Grains Elevate please complete the form below, telling us about your innovation and how this program can support you.
Applications open
Your Elevate Experts
Leigh Kennedy
Australian Hydrogen Council
Sian Priest
Cicada Innovations
Alex Shapilsky
Cicada Innovations
Jehan Kanga
Rux Energy
Noel Dunlop
Energys
Prachi Agrawal
Hysata
The Industry Growth Program is a national initiative designed for innovative startups and business with high growth potential who are ready to scale, solve complex challenges and build Australian manufacturing capability for the future. The program offers eligible businesses guidance, networks and potential funding opportunities to help them confidently commercialise their innovations and scale up into new markets.
The AHC is the peak body for the hydrogen industry and our membership includes companies from across the value chain. Our members are at the forefront of Australia’s hydrogen industry, developing the technology, skills and partnerships necessary to ensure that hydrogen and its derivatives such as ammonia and methanol play a meaningful role in decarbonising Australian industry.
Cicada Innovations is Australia's leading deep tech incubator. With a twenty five year track record of developing ventures focused on the world’s most pressing problems and promising opportunities. Our incubators, trainings, and community is designed to meet the unique needs of deep tech startups. From cutting-edge labs and flexible space, to mentors and a network of ambitious peers. Our mission is to help startups grow and make Australia a leader in deep tech innovation.
