Founder Connect!

Building a startup can change your life and the lives of others. It’s a complex endeavour, but The Startup Network is here to guide you along the way. The Startup Network is a non-Government not for profit entity. We are funded by our members to remain independent & founder focussed.

The Startup Network

Join us for another TSN gathering designed to bring the startup community together!

Darebin Arts Centre

Pitch Nights!

At The Startup Network, we're proud to host Australia's most dynamic and inspiring pitch nights for early-stage founders. Our monthly events are a vibrant showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship, featuring founders and their groundbreaking ideas!

Whether you’re a founder, operator or ecosystem builder, this event is a chance to connect with peers, learn something new and be part of a supportive network. Each edition highlights different voices and topics, but the goal remains the same, community, collaboration and meaningful conversations. Date: 11th August 2026Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PMVenue: Grevillea Room, Darebin Arts Centre 401 Bell Street (corner Bell St &amp; St Georges Rd), Preston 3072 <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-blanck-48473418/" title="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-blanck-48473418/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Joe Blanck</a> spent 20+ years mastering his craft before founding <a href="https://ablanckcanvas.com/" title="https://ablanckcanvas.com/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">A Blanck Canvas</a> in 2013, growing it into a world-class studio designing, building and performing unforgettable, immersive experiences for audiences of all ages, all over the world. In this keynote followed by a Q&amp;A Joe shares candid lessons on the leap from artisan to business leader, scaling a team without losing creative integrity, and navigating high-stakes client relationships. For founders and businesses growing their own ventures, it's a grounded look at what scaling really takes. Joe Blanck is a creature designer, maker, artist and Creative Director with more than 20 years of experience creating immersive entertainment experiences. As the founder of A Blanck Canvas, he leads a Melbourne-based studio specialising in large-scale puppets, props, illuminated installations and live event spectacles for film, theatre and major public events. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HILpeQPE7t4&amp;t=4s" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HILpeQPE7t4&amp;t=4s" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Creating Worlds That Move People | A Blanck Canvas 2026</a> Beginning his career in scenic art and theatre, Joe later worked with Creature Technology Company on acclaimed productions including Walking with Dinosaurs, How to Train Your Dragon and King Kong. In 2013, he founded A Blanck Canvas, bringing together his passion for scenic art, creature-making and live performance to create world-class experiences and handcrafted spectacles. In 2024, he was honoured as a TEA (Themed Entertainment Association) Master, joining a distinguished global network of industry leaders. Through A Blanck Canvas, Joe continues to combine artistry, craftsmanship and innovation to create extraordinary experiences that inspire connection, wonder and imagination. What to Expect:🎤 Inspiring Speaker Session: Gain practical advice and insider knowledge from an experienced industry leader who will share insights to help you navigate your entrepreneurial journey.💬 Interactive Q&amp;A Session: Bring your questions! Learn actionable strategies from our expert speaker.🤝 Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful connections with fellow founders, entrepreneurs, and startup enthusiasts over food and drinks. 🍔🍷 Whether you’re growing your startup, brainstorming your next big idea, or simply exploring the ecosystem, Founder Connect is your chance to gain valuable insights, connect with like-minded individuals, and walk away with inspiration for your entrepreneurial journey Why Attend?Founder Connect is your opportunity to stay informed, network with a thriving community, and gain practical knowledge to strengthen your business. Together, we’ll explore ways to tackle common challenges and build a resilient, innovative future. 📅 Save the date and RSVP now to secure your spot! See you there! 🎉 --------------------------------------------------------Event Participation &amp; Data NoticeBy registering for this event, you agree that your name, email and company details may be shared with our event partners for follow-up and networking purposes. Your details may also be added to The Startup Network’s mailing list so we can send you event updates and community news. You can unsubscribe at any time. 🧾 Refund &amp; Credit Policy – The Startup NetworkWe’re a not-for-profit committed to building a stronger, more connected startup community. We strive to make our events accessible, enjoyable, and financially sustainable, and we appreciate your understanding. ✅ Refund EligibilityWe offer full refunds for paid events if requested at least 7 days prior to the event start date.This helps us avoid hard costs like venue and catering commitments that are typically confirmed one week out. 🔁 Credits for Late CancellationsIf you cancel less than 7 days before the event, we’re unable to offer a refund —but we’ll happily issue a credit for a future TSN event of similar value.To be eligible for a credit:<ul><li>Your request must be submitted in writing (via email to <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/climatetech-agtech-pitch-night-tickets-1088682250919?aff=oddtdtcreator" title="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/climatetech-agtech-pitch-night-tickets-1088682250919?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">contact@thestartupnetwork.com.au</a>)</li><li>The credit must be used within 6 months</li><li>Redemption may require a manual code or RSVP by email — we’re volunteer-led and appreciate your patience with this low-touch process</li></ul> 🚨 Mandatory Refunds (per Eventbrite’s Policy)Regardless of our standard policy, refunds will be issued if:<ul><li>The event is cancelled, postponed (and not rescheduled within 90 days), or significantly changed</li><li>You experience access issues due to our planning (e.g. over-capacity)</li><li>There is a material discrepancy between what was advertised and what was delivered</li></ul> ⚖️ Your Rights Under Australian Consumer LawNothing in this policy limits your rights under the Australian Consumer Law, including your right to a refund if the event fails to meet basic consumer guarantees (e.g. not delivered as described or unsafe). 📬 How to Request a Refund or CreditPlease contact us via email at <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/climatetech-agtech-pitch-night-tickets-1088682250919?aff=oddtdtcreator" title="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/climatetech-agtech-pitch-night-tickets-1088682250919?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">contact@thestartupnetwork.com.au</a> with:<ul><li>Your full name</li><li>The event name and date</li><li>Whether you’re requesting a refund or credit</li></ul>We’ll respond within 5 business days.

Founder Connect!

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Founder Connect!

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