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The 2024 Kickstarter Challenge wrapped up in spectacular fashion, celebrating Australia’s next wave of innovative female entrepreneurs. Hosted by Emma Macdonald, Associate Editor of HerCanberra, and supported by industry partner Visa, the event buzzed with excitement and anticipation as five inspiring female founders presented their startups to a captivated audience. The Kickstarter Challenge showcases women entrepreneurs’ drive, creativity, and potential nationwide.
The event began with a powerful Welcome to Country by Aunty Violet Sheridan, followed by a speech from Assistant Minister for Women, the Hon Kate Thwaites MP. She underscored the critical importance of programs like the Kickstarter Challenge in breaking down barriers for women in business. Despite making up half the population, women continue to face disproportionate challenges in accessing funding and support compared to their male counterparts.
As the crowd settled in, the five female founders took the stage, sharing the passion behind their ventures:
While the judges deliberated, attendees enjoyed a special presentation by Isabella O’Sullivan, the 2024 Enterprising Girl of the Year. Isabella captivated the audience with her innovative project, Moisture Master, which showcased the Accelerator for Enterprising Women’s sister program, the Academy for Enterprising Girls, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among school-aged girls.
As the judges returned, Her Excellency Ms. Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, took the stage to announce the year’s winner. Rosie Dumbrell, founder of Everform Therapywear, was crowned the 2024 Kickstarter Challenge winner, taking home the grand prize of $30,000. Rosie’s groundbreaking therapeutic activewear is poised to revolutionise support for women’s pelvic floor function.
The four runners-up—Ebony Kriedemann & Morgan Becker of InPsync, Catherine McDougall of Support Plus, Catherine Mary Said of Gooday Corporation, and Kylie Wallace of Upcycle—each received $7,500 to invest in their ventures, ensuring that all finalists had the resources to continue their impactful work.
The event concluded with COSBOA CEO Luke Achterstraat emphasising the transformative power of women entrepreneurs in shaping Australia’s future. “By harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit of women, we can create an economy that is not only more inclusive and innovative but truly thriving,” he remarked.
The 2024 Kickstarter Challenge was a powerful showcase of creativity, innovation, and perseverance, highlighting the immense potential of female entrepreneurs. With such high standards set this year, we can’t wait to see what the 2025 Kickstarter Challenge will unveil as we continue championing the next wave of trailblazing female entrepreneurs in Australia!
