Applications Open for the NSW Phoenix Entrepreneur Program

Women Veterans Australia (WVA) is proud to announce the launch of the Phoenix Entrepreneur Program — a free initiative proudly funded by the NSW Government, designed to support women veterans in New South Wales who are ready to start or grow their own businesses.

Key Information

This is a flexible hybrid program designed to support women veterans across NSW (online-only option available).
Dates: 16 March – 22 May 2026 (with a break during NSW school holidays).
Weekly time commitment: 2–3 hours, with flexible scheduling to suit your lifestyle.
In-person options: Three optional sessions held in Sydney.

8-Week Accelerator Program

Delivered by Entrepreneurial & Small Business Women Australia (ESBWA), this flexible program equips women veterans with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to build and grow a successful business. The Accelerator is delivered online to support women veterans across NSW, with three optional in-person sessions in Sydney for those who want to connect further. Participants receive tailored mentoring, practical tools, and structured business development support throughout the program.

Learn more and apply here

How it Works

Step 1: Apply

Ready to take the next step in your business journey? Apply for the program today.
If you’re not sure yet, sign up for a Program Information Session to learn more.

Step 2: Selection Process

A total of 30 participants will be selected to join the 8-Week Accelerator Program.
All applicants will be notified of their outcome by 23 February 2026.

Step 3: 8-Week Accelerator Program

Running from 6 March to 22 May (with a break from 3–19 April during NSW school holidays). Mentees will access workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and group mentoring sessions, support to develop a focused business growth plan and guidance on funding opportunities.

Program Features

  • High-impact business training
  • Personalised mentoring (individual and group)
  • Practical tools, resources, and financial guidance
  • Networking opportunities with experienced entrepreneurs

Still deciding whether the Phoenix Entrepreneur Program is right for you?

Program Information Sessions

Start by attending a Program Information Session:

  • Ideal for women at any stage, whether you're still serving, ex-service or in the reserves
  • 10 Feb at 7:30pm AEDT or 12 Feb at 12:30pm AEDT
  • Online
  • Open to NSW residents only

During the session, you will:

  • Get an overview of the 8-Week Accelerator Program and learn whether it’s the right next step for your business journey.
  • Learn how to assess the viability of your business idea, including what makes an idea market-ready and sustainable.
  • Hear from successful entrepreneurs and industry experts on market demand, financial feasibility, and strategic planning, giving you practical tools to move forward.

Session Dates:

  • Tuesday, 10 February 2026, 7:30pm AEDT
  • Thursday, 12 February 2026, 12:30pm AEDT

Register for the Information Session here