Assemble

Build right. Right from the start.

Assemble the foundations and capabilities needed to move from invention to momentum

You've validated the science, tested the technology, and found there's a market for it. You know you're 'onto something' but turning a complex, capital-intensive innovation into a market-ready venture takes a completely different playbook. So, where do you start?

Cicada Assemble supports early-stage founders who are ready to build, moving beyond validating the science or technology and towards a defensible, scalable commercial venture.

For founders ready to build

Over 16 weeks, deep tech founders are given access to Cicada's commercial expertise and the deep industry and ecosystem connections required to move from invention to traction.

Craft the path

Assemble begins with a two-day bootcamp where founders meet industry experts, stress-test their tech, define their MVP, expand their network, and build a deep tech narrative

Construct the knowledge

Select ventures (up to 20 per Cohort) will then move into Assemble where they access structured in-person and online workshops covering deep tech MVPs, international markets, capital strategy, GTM, and communicating your innovation to investors and partners.

Forge ahead

Fortnightly check-ins designed to maintain focus and build momentum across the foundations that matter most: demonstrating technical feasibility, commercial model, go-to-market, team, and funding.

Sustain your momentum

Access to a vast library of online resources and tools that can be leveraged at any time.

You’ve proven the technology. Now you’re ready to start building your venture.

Who is it for?

- Aspiring or early-stage founders, including researchers and pre-accelerator program graduates

- Founders solving hard industrial, environmental, or societal problems with novel technology and defensible IP, across sectors such as:

- Advanced Manufacturing,

- Defence & Space,

- Climate Tech, Clean Energy & Materials,

- AgTech & Food Security,

- Robotics, Quantum, Sensors & Data-Enabling Hardware

(Note: If you are building software or AI solutions, they should be applied to solving complex, real-world industrial or physical challenges)

Eligibility

Cicada only accepts Assemble applicants who are:

- Based in Australia

- Working on a deep tech solution grounded in scientific or engineering innovation

- Can attend core sessions and check-ins

- For full eligibility details, please check the specific program options below

- You don’t need a company, ABN, or finished product, just a compelling deep tech idea and the drive to take it further

Program Timeline

Find the right fit

Choose the program below that aligns with your sector and/or location

Apply online

Tell us about your venture and your progress

Assessment

We review your application and invite successful applicants to join

Get ready

Complete onboarding and online prep

Assembly in session

2-day Bootcamp, Workshops, check ins and building commence

Graduation

At the end of the 16-week program, we’ll come together to celebrate your progress, milestones, momentum, and journey

Find the right program for you

From aerospace to climate tech, Assemble is backed by partners who bring deep sector expertise, commercial insight, and industry access.

Innovation Victoria Assemble

Supported by Innovation Victoria, this program helps Victorian deep tech founders assemble the commercial foundations to take validated science from lab to market.

Explore program

What makes Assemble special

We’re excited to bring Assemble to market to support deep tech founders through one of the most challenging stages in the journey: from validated technology to commercially-strong venture that's ready to be built.

25 years of impact

Our experience supporting hundreds of companies shows that you need broad access across sectors and stakeholders to facilitate the right introductions - the kind of introductions that progress founders from customer discovery to validated business model and MVP. Cicada brings 25 years of ecosystem access and Assemble is your path to tap into it.

Meet our mentors

Our program coaches and mentors are seasoned experts across deep tech, investment, industry, and commercialisation, with experience spanning agriculture, space, defence, medtech, and manufacturing - experts who understand your sector and can help you navigate complex challenges and accelerate your journey towards commercialisation.

Anamika Mishra

Australian Trade and Investment Commission

Angeline Achariya

David Vicino

SYPAQ

Grace Bird

Main Sequence

Nameeta Bhole

Expert In Residence - National Space Industry Hub

Tim Parsons

Expert in Residence - National Space Industry Hub

FAQ

How much does Assemble cost?

Assemble is fully funded by government and industry partners and equity-free.

Do I need to have a company to apply?

You don't need a registered business, ABN, or a finished product, just a compelling deep tech idea and the drive to explore its potential. For full eligibility details, check the specific program you are applying for.

How is Assemble delivered?

Assemble is a structured, 16-week program delivered online and in-person.

Can I bring my team?

Yes. If accepted, you're encouraged to bring your co-founders or team members to work on the venture together.

How do you assess applications?

We look at your technology, stage, and fit for the specific program you are applying for. If we need more information, we may follow up with additional questions before making a decision.

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