From the success of the 2019 cohort, ClubsNSW and Slingshot, Australia’s leading corporate accelerator, have opened a second cohort of the innovation program, ClubsTHRIVE.
ClubsTHRIVE forms an important part of the peak club industry body’s broader strategy, which is committed to driving greater engagement, growth and diversification for its member clubs.
With a focus on scaleups and community projects, ClubsNSW is looking to harness ideas from these communities to fuel its innovation agenda even further.
ClubsNSW appreciates the ClubsTHRIVE program
ClubsNSW CEO Josh Landis said that he was thrilled to welcome a second cohort, which has the potential to transform how clubs do business and support the communities they serve.
“ClubsNSW is looking for ways to help member clubs diversify business and increase their engagement with local communities given the challenges our industry has faced over the past 18 months and the ClubsTHRIVE program is the perfect opportunity to do just that.”
“Personally, I can’t wait to see what ideas the creative minds involved come up with and I have no doubt that our industry will reap the benefits of them in the near future,” said Mr Landis.
Open to scaleups and not-for-profits for a cohort of innovation, the ClubsTHRIVE accelerator program offers a structured 12-week course led by entrepreneurs and industry experts.
Slingshot’s community of alumni, mentors and partners, and fast-tracks business development prepares businesses into the program for opportunities with ClubsNSW and member clubs.
ClubsTHRIVE accelerator program criteria
Scaleups and not-for-profits will address the following themes to apply for the program.
Member engagement
Provide improved products and experiences to increase visitation and access to NSW clubs, as well as create opportunities for future generations to engage with and enjoy clubs.
Boost business
Drive growth utilizing existing club assets or introducing technologies to increase revenue streams, improve operations, develop efficiencies, streamline services, or automate processes.
Community connection
Improve club ties with their communities, encourage diversity and improve the health and wellbeing of members and the broader community who come from all walks of life.
Staff engagement
Introduce systems, processes or programs that will help in attracting, developing, engaging, and also retaining competent and very experienced talent.
Blue sky thinking
Let us know about your revolutionary ideas or solutions that will help transform clubs and help in building a sustainable and reliable industry.
“The talent from the first program inspired and, with focus now on high-growth scaleups, we are to uncover better businesses with greater commercial alignment,” said Mr Craig Lambert.
“ClubsTHRIVE is a testament to ClubsNSW’s deep commitment to strengthening the club industry and generating relevant and innovative opportunities for future generations.”
Applications for the ClubsTHRIVE program opened on 1st October and closed on 31st October.
Short-listed scaleups and not-for-profits will go through a selection day process on 9th – 10th November, with the successful cohort beginning the program on 1st February 2022.
