HATCH Armidale - Cohort 1

Got a business idea brewing? HATCH is your launchpad.

Think of HATCH as your Business 101 – a structured, cohort-based program designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage founders ready to take the first real steps toward building a business. Whether you're still refining your idea or ready to test the waters, HATCH gives you the foundations, tools, and momentum to get moving – surrounded by a small group of like-minded people on the same journey.

This isn't a one-off workshop you'll forget about next week. When you sign up for HATCH, you're committing to yourself and your idea. Over five months, you'll build your knowledge, strengthen your confidence, and develop the skills you need to take your concept from "maybe one day" to "let's do this."

With only 20 spots available, you'll be part of an intimate cohort where you can learn, share, ask questions, and grow alongside others who are just as serious about turning their ideas into reality.

What's included:

For just $50, you'll get access to the full program:

Half-Day Workshop | Saturday 28 February | 9am–1pm We kick off with a hands-on, interactive session that takes you through the essentials of building a business from the ground up. You'll explore business fundamentals, work through lean canvas planning to map out your idea, and dive into ideation techniques to refine your concept. This is about getting clarity, asking the right questions, and leaving with a solid foundation to build on. Morning tea and lunch included – because good ideas deserve good fuel.

4 x Monthly Masterclasses | 5:30pm–7pm Momentum matters. That's why HATCH doesn't stop at the workshop. Over the following four months, you'll join after-hours masterclasses designed to keep you accountable, build your capability, and give you practical skills you can apply straight away:

• Start Smart | Wednesday 5 March – Setting up for success: structures, systems, and getting your ducks in a row

• Build It For Someone | Friday 18 April – Knowing your value offer: who you're solving a problem for and why they'll care

• Money In | Tuesday 20 May – Pricing, revenue and early sales: how to value what you do and start bringing in income

• Getting Seen | Wednesday 18 June – Marketing on a shoestring: practical, low-cost ways to reach your audience and build visibility

BONUS: Free Pitch Workshop Access Ready to share your idea with the world? As a HATCH participant, you'll receive complimentary access to our Pitch Prep Workshops (usually $25 per session) in the lead-up to our regional Pitch Nights. Learn pitching fundamentals, practice your delivery with expert guidance, and build the confidence to step up when the opportunity comes. Whether you're planning to pitch or just want to sharpen your communication skills, this is your chance to get pitch-ready – on us.

• Tamworth | Wednesday 14 May | 5pm–6:30pm

• Armidale | Thursday 15 May | 5pm–6:30pm

By the end of HATCH, you'll have a clear understanding of your business idea, a roadmap for what comes next, and the confidence to take action.

Who is HATCH for?

• People with a business idea they're ready to get serious about

• Early-stage founders looking for structure, support, and accountability

• Career changers, side-hustlers, or anyone curious about entrepreneurship who wants to learn the fundamentals in a supportive, practical environment

No prior business experience required – just a willingness to show up, put in the work, and back yourself.

Where: NOVA, Armidale

Cost: $50 for the full program

Capacity: Limited to 20 participants – register now to secure your spot.