Pre-flight November 2026 (Cohort #14)

Pre-flight is a two-day, full-time pre-accelerator in Parramatta for people exploring entrepreneurship, developing a startup idea, or building entrepreneurial skills for work inside an existing business.

What you’ll explore

The program concentrates on the ideation stage: assessing what you know, weighing up options and developing an idea to take forward. Topics include:

• Turning an idea into a commercial opportunity
• Choosing between multiple ideas
• Designing a business model
• Building a first product version
• Building foundational entrepreneurial capabilities

Participants should finish with an initial value proposition statement and lean canvas. You do not need to have an idea, solution or product to take part.

Format and requirements

• Two full days, from 8.30am–5pm each day
• Lunch is provided
• Bring your own laptop
• Held at Western Sydney University, Level 1, 6 Hassall St, Parramatta
• Places are limited to a small group of founders

There are no entry criteria, and the program is open to students and non-students. Completing Pre-flight does not provide automatic entry to accelerator programs; separate applications are still required.

Cost and conditions

The cost is $199 including GST, plus a booking fee. It is complimentary for Western students and staff—contact the organiser for details.

By registering, you agree to the terms and conditions and code of conduct.

Facilitators

Ian Mason and Cat Matson facilitate the program. Ian has founded businesses and worked in startup support, while Cat works with business owners and leaders on confident, authentic communication.