The ACTivate Capital Fund will target Canberra-based startups in early growth stages, investing under responsible principles to help ideas reach market, scale, and commercialise research.

The Chief Minister highlighted the territory’s strong economic performance, ongoing infrastructure and housing plans, and steps to diversify the economy.

The fund opens with 23 million in committed capital and has potential to grow to 50 million, with a planned second close in about 18 months.

Backers include the ACT Government as cornerstone investor, Epicorp as General Partner, and UNSW Canberra alongside local family offices as Limited Partners.

Start-ups are encouraged to engage with Epicorp about investment opportunities, with details available at activatecapital.com.au.

Ken Kroeger, Managing Partner of ACTivate Capital, underscored Canberra’s track record of successful tech companies and the team’s governance and capability to support founders.

Over the next five to seven years, the fund will actively seek high-potential ventures to strengthen Canberra’s innovation ecosystem and solidify its status as a talent and investment hub.

The ACT Government launched ACTivate Capital Fund, a new early-stage venture capital limited partnership based in Canberra.

A second investment round is anticipated in roughly 18 months, broadening opportunities for investors.