Victoria’s startup ecosystem has experienced remarkable growth and resilience, with innovative companies emerging as beacons of success during challenging times.
LaunchVic, an organisation dedicated to supporting startups in the region, recently held its annual awards ceremony to honour outstanding achievers. Among the winners were Mr Yum, Zeller, Willed, and Dr Elena Kelareva, each recognised for their remarkable contributions to their respective industries.
Startup of the Year: Mr Yum – Empowering Local Hospitality Businesses During Pandemic Restrictions
Mr Yum, the popular food ordering app, claimed the prestigious Startup of the Year award for its pivotal role in assisting local hospitality businesses during pandemic restrictions. As dining establishments faced unprecedented challenges, Mr Yum stepped in to provide a lifeline. The app offered a user-friendly platform that enabled customers to browse menus, order food, and make payments seamlessly, thereby supporting restaurants and cafes in staying open despite the limitations imposed by lockdowns. Through innovative solutions and unwavering commitment, Mr Yum demonstrated the power of technology in fostering resilience within the hospitality sector.
Scaleup of the Year: Zeller – A Fintech Phenomenon Breaking Records
Zeller, a fintech firm, took home the Scaleup of the Year award thanks to its extraordinary growth and remarkable achievements. Zeller reached a billion-dollar valuation within a remarkably short period in a feat that set an Australian record. The company’s dedication to providing innovative financial solutions resonated with customers, resulting in a rapidly expanding customer base of 35,000 businesses within its first three years of operation. Zeller’s success story exemplifies the transformative power of fintech in empowering businesses and revolutionising the financial landscape.
Best Newcomer Award: Willed – Simplifying End-of-Life Planning for All Australians
Willed, an online tool created by a team of lawyers and tech experts in 2020, earned the coveted Best Newcomer award. Recognising the importance of end-of-life planning, Willed set out to make this essential process more accessible and affordable. The platform enables anyone to create a legal will in as little as 15 minutes, ensuring that individuals can take control of their estate planning without the need for costly legal assistance. Willed’s dedication to democratising end-of-life planning was lauded for its potential to empower Australians and promote a proactive approach to estate management.
Regional Ecosystem Hero of the Year: Dr Elena Kelareva – Pioneering Digital Innovation in Gippsland
Dr. Elena Kelareva, CEO of GippsTech, was honored as the Regional Ecosystem Hero of the Year for her exceptional contributions to digital innovation in Gippsland. Dr. Kelareva’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts have helped shape the regional startup ecosystem, fostering collaboration and driving technological advancements. Through GippsTech, she has championed the development of digital solutions, enabling businesses and communities in Gippsland to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
