Women Fellowship

Startups need women and women need startups

PROGRAM DATE:
April 30 - June 30 2025
Applications close:
February 28, 2025

Land your dream job

This is what it’s all about. We’re your backdoor entry into startup land, and being a Women Fellow gives you the stamp of approval. We’ll help you figure out how to translate your existing skillset into a role at a startup and then give you the coaching and intros you need to close the deal.

Startups, demystified

Gain a technical understanding of startups; stages, industries, roles, salaries, jargon, and how to negotiate like a boss. After 8 weeks of the Fellowship, you’ll be talking the language like a pro.

Community, community, community

Meet the people who will be your mentors, inspiration and friends as you make this leap into the startup ecosystem - not to mention a warm intro at almost any startup in ANZ. This powerful network will raise your ambitions and back you every step of the way.

89%

LAND A JOB WITHIN 6 MONTHS OF THE FELLOWSHIP

Who is this program for?

Bored in your current job and looking for a new challenge?

If you’re curious about working in a startup within the next 6 months, this is the program for you.

Highly driven, but not moving in a direction that feels right?

We’ll back you in with the inspiration, confidence and mentorship you need to move into a career you love.

Want to meet other women who are also at a crossroads in their careers?

Learn from (and make friends with!) a cohort of hungry women who want to make an impact through their careers.

9.3/10 FROM 1000+ ALUMNI REVIEWS

I gained such a well-rounded, realistic insight into the startup ecosystem and what it’s like to run or work in a startup. If you’re at all curious, I couldn’t recommend this program enough.

Melanie Booth

Community Organiser @ Nature Conservation Council NSW

I gained such a well-rounded, realistic insight into the startup ecosystem and what it’s like to run or work in a startup. If you’re at all curious, I couldn’t recommend this program enough.

Nicole Tesler

Broker Assistant @ MGA Insurance Group

What do you get?

The Women Fellowship is an 8-week program designed to help you land your dream job in a startup. With the help of 1-1 coaching, a squad of hand-picked peers, and actionable workshops you'll be job-ready. We will put you in front of startups that are hiring and give you direct introductions to your dream companies.

1:1 coaching

We pair you with the coach best placed to help you with your specific background and goals. Think of someone a few years ahead of you in their career who can give you personalised guidance.

Content

Practical workshops that demystify the startup industry and help you figure out where you fit in.

Community

From the small in-person squad groups who will become some of your best friends, to the cohort of ambitious women navigating similar changes and challenges in their career, to our 4000+ people community who are all here to give you a helping hand: this community is worth its weight in gold.

Direct connection to interviews

Interview nights with some of the fastest-growing startups in ANZ, where you can speak directly with hiring managers who want to hire women fellows.

Past speakers and coaches

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Apply now

Squash any doubts, raise your ambition, land your dream job and join a community of like-minded, ambitious women changing the world - one startup at a time.
APPLICATIONS CLOSE:
28/2/25
PROGRAM DATE:
8
April 30 - June 30 2025
Cost:
$
3000
(INCL. GST)
SCHOLARSHIPS

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Frequently asked questions

Is the program virtual or in-person?

The program is mostly virtual. All of the content is delivered in a virtual format (and will be recorded if you can’t attend live). However, we will also be hosting a few in-person events in the major capital cities as we find this helps facilitate stronger connections.

I don’t know if the program is right for me.

The best way to gauge if the program is right for you is to check out the Program Overview outlined above and have a look at what will be covered. If you believe that content might be beneficial to you, I would absolutely encourage you to apply.

It’s also worth noting that the session content is only one part of the program. The other main component of the Fellowship is the community.

You will be joining a cohort of other ambitious and inspiring women who are here to support you on your journey.

You will also be joining the ‘Startmate Community’, which is a powerful network of some of the best startup operators, founders, and investors in Australia and New Zealand.

If you think you would benefit from being a part of this community, I would also encourage you to apply.

Is there any financial assistance available?

Yes! We would hate for epic women to be limited by financial hardship. If you are unable to participate due to the program fee, you may be eligible for a scholarship. If this is the case, please reach out to kelly@startmate.com.au

What is the time commitment?

On average, 2-5 hours per week. Sessions will primarily take place on Mondays (evening), Tuesdays (lunchtime), and Thursdays (evening). Sessions are recorded in case you can’t attend any sessions! There will also be some optional in-person activity throughout the program.

Am I still eligible for the Fellowship if I already have startup / tech experience?

Yes absolutely - this Fellowship is for anyone looking to pivot their career. We will have women working in corporate, government, startups, scale ups, big tech, multi-national corps, healthcare- you name it. If you want to change roles and are seeking skills, motivation and support to do so, come join us.