Celebrating Young Innovators
The Emerging Entrepreneur Award
An initiative by the Coleborne Family to inspire and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of tomorrow.
The Emerging Entrepreneur Award is a program designed to foster creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit among the students of St Philip’s Christian College. Established in 2024 by Matt and Hayley Coleborne, founders of Growth Gurus, the award celebrates students who have the courage to think differently, embrace challenges, and transform their ideas into reality.
At Growth Gurus, we believe that entrepreneurship is more than just business; it’s about resilience, creativity, and leadership. The Coleborne Family’s deep connection with the school community and their dedication to nurturing young talent inspired this initiative, making it a catalyst for tomorrow’s innovators.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a student with big ideas, this award is your chance to gain recognition, mentorship, and financial support to bring your vision to life.
How to Apply for the Emerging Entrepreneur Award
Your journey starts here – take the first step toward bringing your ideas to life.
Are you ready to take your entrepreneurial spirit to the next level? The Emerging Entrepreneur Award is open to all students in Years 9, 10, and 11 at St Philip's Christian College, Port Stephens Campus in 2024. This is your chance to gain recognition, mentorship, and financial support for your business ideas.
Here’s how you can apply for this prestigious award:
Teacher Nominations
Students who demonstrate entrepreneurial potential may be nominated by their teachers. However, students should also apply directly if they feel they meet the award’s criteria.
Written Submission
You will need to submit a short written response answering these key questions:
- Describe a project or venture you initiated: What inspired you, and what challenges did you overcome?
- How do you envision your entrepreneurial skills making a difference in the future?
- What does being an entrepreneur mean to you, and how do you embody this in your daily life?
Video Introduction
Video Introduction In addition to your written submission, you’ll need to upload a video answering the question:
"What drives your entrepreneurial spirit?"
Your video should be short and authentic, showcasing your passion, creativity, and drive.
Submit Your Application
Complete the form on the next page with your details and upload your submissions. Be sure to submit everything by the application deadline to be considered for the award.
The Launch of the Award - A New Beginning in 2024
Empowering young minds to think boldly and creatively – the journey begins.
In early 2024, the Emerging Entrepreneur Award was officially launched at St Philip's Christian College, Port Stephens, marking the beginning of a bold new initiative for the next generation of entrepreneurs. This inspiring event featured presentations from Matt and Hayley Coleborne, founders of Growth Gurus, alongside Till H. Gross, a respected industry leader.
Together, they shared their stories of entrepreneurial success and the importance of fostering creativity, resilience, and business acumen in young minds. The launch event was filled with excitement and hope for the future, as students, teachers, and business leaders gathered to celebrate the start of a long-term commitment to empowering student entrepreneurs.
Through mentorship, funding, and hands-on experiences, the Emerging Entrepreneur Award promises to help students break boundaries and achieve their business dreams.
Watch the video below to see highlights from the launch event and the inspiring messages shared by our speakers.
Get Ready for the Startup Scramble - 2025
Empowering young minds to think boldly and creatively – the journey begins.
In 2025, the Emerging Entrepreneur Award will host an exciting new event – the Startup Scramble. This one-day hackathon is designed to challenge students to come up with bold business ideas, collaborate with their peers, and pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts.
Students will have just a few hours to develop and present their concepts, mirroring the fast-paced environment of real-world entrepreneurship. With mentorship from local business leaders and support from the broader community, the Startup Scramble promises to be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Community Call to Action
We are calling on businesses and industry professionals in the Port Stephens and Newcastle area to get involved! Whether as mentors, sponsors, or event contributors, your support will help shape the next generation of entrepreneurs. By engaging with these young minds, you’ll not only inspire them but also play a part in their entrepreneurial journey.
Interested in making an impact? Join us as a mentor or sponsor and be a part of the Startup Scramble 2025.
Key Highlights:
- One-day event on campus, inviting students to pitch their innovative ideas.
- Mentorship opportunities for business leaders.
- A prize pool (with room to grow through community support).
- Opportunities for media coverage, event partnerships, and local sponsorships.
- Fun, competitive, and collaborative environment.
Mentorship and Support Guiding You on Your Entrepreneurial Journey
Expert guidance and resources to turn your ideas into reality.
Winning the Emerging Entrepreneur Award is just the beginning. Along with the $2,500 financial award, you’ll gain access to invaluable mentorship from some of the brightest minds in the industry.
Our mentorship program is designed to give you the tools and support you need to develop your business idea. Whether you’re working on a startup, social enterprise, or personal project, you’ll receive tailored advice and guidance to help you grow.
What You’ll Get as a Winner:
Mentorship from Industry Experts:
Learn from leaders at Growth Gurus and other business professionals who specialize in areas like marketing, business development, and execution strategies.
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Personalized Support:
The mentorship is customized to fit your project’s specific needs, ensuring you get the right advice at the right time.
One Year of Guidance:
You’ll have access to your mentors for a full year, with the potential for extended support as your project progresses.
Join the Movement – Support the Future of Entrepreneurship
Become part of a community that inspires and nurtures young innovators.
The Emerging Entrepreneur Award is more than just an award – it’s a movement to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among young people. And we can’t do it without you.
We’re Calling on Local Businesses and Leaders to Get Involved: Whether through mentorship, sponsorship, or event participation, your support will make a real difference in the lives of young entrepreneurs. By joining the movement, you’ll help create opportunities for students to learn, grow, and make an impact on their communities.
How You Can Support:
Become a Mentor:
Share your expertise with a young entrepreneur and help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.
Sponsor the Award:
Your financial support will go toward expanding the program, increasing the prize pool, and creating more opportunities for students.
Sponsor the Startup Scramble:
Contribute to the success of our one-day hackathon event in 2025, helping students bring their business ideas to life in a competitive and collaborative environment.
Interested in making a difference?
Contact us today to find out how you can get involved.
