Entrepreneurship in Australia can be a solitary journey for small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners, but the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) provides a vital community where they find connection, support, and growth.
With over 20,000 members worldwide, including hundreds across Australia, EO offers confidential forums, peer mentorship, and tailored programs like EO Accelerator for businesses generating annual revenues of $250,000 or more. These resources enable SME owners to share experiences, tackle challenges, and build resilience, especially critical when 88% of entrepreneurs report mental health difficulties, according to the 2024 Founders Report. EO’s unique blend of business development and personal well-being support empowers entrepreneurs to thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
EO’s community fosters open dialogue and collaboration. Confidential forums create a safe space for honest discussions about business challenges, from cash flow management to team dynamics. Peer mentorship connects SME owners with experienced entrepreneurs who provide practical insights drawn from real-world successes and setbacks.
EO Accelerator, a structured program for high-potential businesses, offers workshops, strategic planning tools, and access to global best practices, helping participants scale their operations effectively. Beyond business growth, EO emphasizes well-being, offering resources to manage stress and combat the isolation that often accompanies entrepreneurship. This holistic approach strengthens entrepreneurs’ ability to lead with clarity and confidence, fostering a sense of belonging that drives sustained success.
Voices from the community
The impact of EO’s network is evident in the experiences of its members. Ash Woodcock, Founder of RPM Hire, shares, “When I joined EO, our revenue sat at $6 million. This year, we’re tracking towards $50 million. That’s 800% growth over seven years — and we now operate nationally, not just in one state.” He reflects on the community’s broader role, saying, “If you’re only considering EO for the business benefits, you’re missing out. True growth happens when you improve yourself, your business, and your family life all at once. The EO philosophy really proves that you can really improve all elements at once.”
Jeremy Goldman, Founder of WAG, a natural dog treat brand, also highlights EO’s transformative role. “Since joining EO nine years ago, we’ve transformed from a tiny team of three to a robust team of sixty,” he says. “Every metric, from revenue and profitability to market reach, has significantly grown.” Goldman adds, “EO has fundamentally shaped me as a leader. It’s given me the confidence to lead boldly, knowing that others have navigated the same paths before. The biggest lesson from EO is realising that you’re not alone in your journey.”
How to become an
EO member
Membership Requirements:
- Must be an owner, founder, or majority stakeholder of an established LLC.
- Business must have annual revenue of $1 million USD or more in the most recent fiscal year.
- Venture-backed companies need $2 million in privately-raised funds or $5 million in publicly-raised funds, plus at least 10 employees.
Application Process:
- Submit a short online interest form.
- Connect with a local chapter representative to discuss qualifications.
- Complete a full application (15-20 minutes).
- Attend a member interview with the local chapter.
- Upon acceptance, participate in EO orientation to learn about forums and resources.
Costs and Expectations:
- Membership includes a one-time $3,500 initiation fee and annual chapter dues (vary by chapter, prorated by join date).
- Members must maintain confidentiality, adhere to a non-solicitation policy, promote a safe environment, uphold ethical and legal standards, and fulfill EO obligations.
More info here.
EO’s impact is backed by compelling data. Australian EO members report an average annual growth rate of 30%, effectively doubling their businesses over three years. In contrast, the national small business growth rate is 3.7% per annum, or 11.5% over the same period, according to the 2024 Xero Small Business Insights Australia Update.
This means EO members grow eight times faster, achieving 935% more growth than the national average. These figures highlight the tangible benefits of EO’s peer-driven, community-focused model, which equips entrepreneurs with the tools and support to outperform industry benchmarks.
EO Australia is conducting a national study to explore the links between community support, well-being, and business performance, with results expected in June 2025. This research will provide deeper insights into how connection drives SME success, potentially shaping future initiatives to support Australian entrepreneurs. By fostering a culture of shared learning and mutual support, EO is redefining what it means to grow a business sustainably.
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