From the blog

Bloom’s Launchpad Semester 2, 2024: A Record-Breaking Success for Young Innovators

November 11, 2024

$56,000 in total revenue. 25 startup founders. Just 12 weeks.

What makes these numbers even more remarkable? Most of these budding entrepreneurs are still university students in their early 20s, already making waves in Western Australia’s startup scene. Bloom’s Launchpad this semester is living, breathing proof of what happens when we empower young founders with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to bring their ideas to life.

Behind the Limelight: Success Stories from Bloom’s Young Entrepreneurs

Yes, we’re proud of the impressive numbers above. But what truly brings them to life are the human stories behind each one. That’s why people are our biggest investment—always. Bloom understands that even the most disruptive ideas and thriving startups can be replaced. The potential hidden within each founder, however? That’s limitless, and we’re in the serious business of unlocking it.

With vision, grit, and a “level-up” mindset, here’s a peek into the kind of inspiring journeys you can’t help but root for:

  • Rohan and Perfect Media

Gifted with an eye for photography and media production, Rohan initially chose a “safe” university path to secure financial stability—at the cost of burning out. Through Launchpad, Rohan’s digital marketing agency, Perfect Media, generated an impressive $26,000, landing prestigious clients like the WA Liberal Party and The Institute of Public Affairs. Now, he’s pivoting to the fast-growing e-commerce sector.

  • Jordi and West Co The Label

Despite being a ray of sunshine in her community, Jordan faced bullying that chipped away at her self-esteem and confidence. She found solace in nature, and through Launchpad, launched West Co, an athleisure e-commerce brand embodying adventure, discovery, and self-empowerment. Her debut collection, Ocean and Earth, tapped into the zeitgeist, generating over $2,000 in the first 30 minutes of launching.

Our Secret Sauce to Youth Innovation? Community

When asked about the secret to a successful startup incubator, our answer is often elusive: “the vibe is just right,” we’d shrug. But at Bloom, we know the real alchemy lies in our dynamic mix of ambitious thinkers and doers, which fosters a constant flow of support, creativity, and challenge. It’s a space where sparks fly, ideas thrive, and everyone pushes each other to new heights.

Add to that the hands-on mentorship from program co-facilitators Jasmin Ward and Jeroen van Dalen, who bring hard-earned insights from their own entrepreneurial journeys, and you have the perfect ecosystem for turning vision into reality.

The Cherry on Top: A Sold-Out Showcase in the New Ideas Hub

This semester ended on a high note with Launchpad’s largest Showcase to date. With 125 registrations, the event filled the room with students, mentors, investors, and esteemed guests—including the CEO of the Malka Foundation. Held for the first time in the newly renovated Ideas Hub, this space symbolises the commitment of our long-term partners—Malka Foundation, Lotterywest, and St Catherine’s College—to nurturing youth innovation across Western Australia.

Feeling Inspired? You Could Be the Next Big Thing!

Good news: we’re now looking for the next generation of innovators for Launchpad Semester 1, 2025. Bad news: it’s highly competitive, with hundreds of applications each semester. If you want to be among the top 1% of students creating real-world solutions while still in university, hustle for your spot ASAP!

You can read more about Western Australia’s top youth incubator and its application process here.

With almost 500 startups launched over the past decade, Bloom is proud to foster Western Australia’s brightest entrepreneurial talents, including Forbes 30 Under 30 and The Australian’s Top 100 Innovators recipients. Is this your time to shine? The next big idea might just be a Launchpad away!

Key Takeaways

  • Record-Breaking Results: 25 young startup founders generated $53,000 in revenue in just 12 weeks.
  • Inspiring Success Stories: Participants like Rohan and Jordan turned personal passions into thriving businesses, from media production to e-commerce.
  • Powerful Community: Bloom’s dynamic community of ambitious thinkers and doers offers peer-to-peer support and fosters collaboration.
  • Hands-On Mentorship: Expert guidance from seasoned mentors Jasmin Ward and Jeroen van Dalen helps participants tackle real-world challenges.
  • New Showcase Milestone: The semester concluded with Launchpad’s largest-ever Showcase, hosted in the new Ideas Hub, with 125 attendees, including the CEO of the Malka Foundation.

Looking Forward: Applications are now open for Launchpad Semester 1, 2025—an opportunity for young innovators to join Western Australia’s top youth incubator.

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