Small businesses and start-ups in the west have a new place to turn to add some spark to their strategy.
Victoria University has launched The Hanger, a new business ‘stimulator’ in the heart of Footscray aimed at turning dreams and ideas into reality.
Anyone with an idea or a business query can drop by and talk to three VU ‘entrepreneurs in residence’ – Gus Balbontin, Jordan Gianfrancesco and Thomas Anbeek.
Mr Anbeek, Startup Victoria’s business operations manager, said VU wants to boost the entrepreneurial mindset among staff and students and also in the broader western suburbs community.
“We came up with The Hanger, which is a stimulator space,” he said.
“We are working with local businesses; the space is open for everyone although there is a big focus on the west.”
Mr Balbontin said the plan is to help people turn ideas into a viable business, or existing businesses reach out to a broader audience through more innovative social media or marketing.
“We just want to get those conversations going, to try out new ideas because this is not as scary as it might seem – if it matters it’s worth doing.”
The opening of The Hanger coincides with the launch of the ‘Startup Truck’, which will initially drive around suburbs in the west and ultimately reach other suburbs across Melbourne.
Mr Anbeek said the truck will be up and running from next week, taking expertise and resources from Footscray to the rest of the west.
“Hopefully it will seduce them to The Hanger.”
Mr Anbeek said since launching last week, The Hanger has already assisted with close to 20 projects.
The Hanger has already helped about 20 projects.
Details: www.vuhanger.com
