Launching October 2026 · Sydney
The 40x Program brings together up to 40 of Australia’s most promising early-stage software founders. Designed for founders of businesses that are generating revenue looking to scale and are raising capital in the next 12 months.
Your program host_
Mark “Z” Zmarzly
FinTech founder turned AWS startup whisperer, Mark built and sold Hip Pocket, spent seven years helping 50 VC funds and 1,000+ portfolio companies get the most out of AWS, and has angel-invested in 60+ startups across ANZ and the US. He's been on every side of the table you're about to sit at. Find and connect with him on LinkedIn.
What you'll get
The program is built around the cohort. It provides participants with a chance to learn alongside founders at a similar stage, build meaningful peer relationships, and get practical exposure to experienced founders and investors ahead of a raise.
Fellowship with founders in the trenches
Building a company is a difficult and sometimes lonely journey. You'll leave with a trusted group of peers, all sharing similar experiences at a similar stage.
A direct line to investors
The program culminates on 28 January 2027 where you will spend time with many of Australia’s most active Pre Seed and Seed stage investors. Bring your questions on fundraising, metrics and strategy, and get straight answers from the people who write the cheques.
Advice from founders who've done it
You will hear from founders who have raised capital and grown global businesses.
Partner Perks
We’re working with many key partners to help secure additional perks for participants. Example: We’re working with AWS to secure up to $25k in AWS Active credits for program participants (subject to AWS terms and conditions).
Who is it for
The program is built to bring together founders with similar challenges at a similar stage. You're a strong fit if:
- You've founded a software company
- You have a product that is generating early revenue
- You're planning to raise capital in the next 12 months
- You can commit to all three onsite days in Sydney (interstate founders welcome to fly in): Oct 1, Nov 18 and Jan 28
"We back founders with unique insight into the problem they're solving. We look for software businesses with exceptional economics, where AI, data and novel applications of technology create a durable advantage."
Howard Leibman, Partner at EVPThe schedule
Three in-person days, with virtual sessions and cohort connection in between.
Program kickoff
Welcome, small-group breakouts to build connection and trust, a practical session on how to raise investment, a panel of founders who've recently closed rounds, a VC panel, then drinks and networking with your new cohort.
Peer-led content day and cohort social
The cohort takes the stage. Founders share expertise across marketing, GTM, PR and sales, followed by social time together.
Founder & Funder closing event
The program concludes by putting founders and investors in the same room, ready for the raises ahead.
Ready to raise with 39 founders beside you?
Complete the brief interest form to be considered. It takes less than 10 minutes.
Apply now Applications close 15 September 2026