REACH Australia & New Zealand PropTech accelerator remains dedicated to fostering fresh innovation in the real estate sector, and is now welcoming applications for its fifth cohort in 2024.
The REACH initiative has played a pivotal role in the success of several prominent PropTech startups in the nation, such as ActivePipe, BoxBrownie, Realtime Conveyancer, Future Rent, and Propic.
This program offers a comprehensive package that encompasses funding, mentorship, participation in impactful conferences, trade shows, and networking events, as well as exposure through media and academic affiliations. It also boasts a vast network of likeminded entrepreneurs spanning over 220 companies that are part of the REACH portfolio.
Peter Schravemade, the Managing Partner of REACH ANZ, emphasized that many entrepreneurs initially join the REACH program with the primary aim of securing funding. However, he highlighted that the true value often lies in the accelerator program’s capacity to enrich their ventures.
According to Mr. Schravemade, “While funding might seem like the primary advantage, I believe the real treasure is the accelerator program itself. This sentiment is strongly echoed by our program participants.”
He went on to explain that when companies become part of the REACH community, they instantly gain access to a wide spectrum of opportunities. The program facilitates strategic introductions through its educational resources and mentorship pool. These resources encompass a diverse database of about 30 educational strands tailored to PropTech, accessible through a dashboard for cohort members.
This support is instrumental for businesses aiming to collaborate with key industry bodies like the Real Estate Institute of Queensland. Additionally, it proves invaluable when expanding internationally, as REACH’s well-established presence spans various locations, including North America.
Mr. Schravemade underlined the extensive network of mentors and industry professionals available to cohort members. He clarified that this group includes the core team of three and an additional cadre of approximately 100 mentors, all of whom are passionate advocates of the REACH program. These individuals volunteer their time to provide tailored and focused guidance to the selected program participants.
The Australian branch of REACH is led by three full-time members: Mr. Schravemade, Director Ebonnie Schravemade, and Tom Ellis. Each of them brings a diverse skill set and rich experience from their involvement in startups and successful exits.
Mr. Schravemade specializes in marketing, revenue, and strategy, while Ebonnie Schravemade excels in systems, processes, efficiencies, remote onboarding, and staffing. Tom Ellis is recognized as one of Australia’s leading experts in finance and funding within the PropTech domain.
The culmination of the REACH program takes the form of the annual REACH Genesis conference. This event brings together the current cohort, alumni from previous years, and a host of industry experts to deliberate on contemporary challenges and potential solutions. The varied growth stages of the participating companies often lead to knowledge exchange, and in some cases, mergers, acquisitions, or strategic partnerships.
This initiative is managed by Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors®.
The upcoming 2024 program, scheduled from February to October 2024, will blend virtual and in-person events. Applications will be open until September 30, 2023, inviting aspiring PropTech entrepreneurs to be part of this transformative experience.
