A Joint Initiative to Support Migrant and Refugee Women Health Innovators in South West Sydney
New funding will back South West Sydney’s next generation of health innovators – especially migrant and refugee women entrepreneurs – thanks to a new partnership between UNSW Founders, The George Institute for Global Health and JEINA (Justice Inclusion Access).
The region’s first dedicated health entrepreneurship program will provide local founders with funding, mentorship, and pathways into Australia’s leading innovation programs – ensuring they have the resources to grow and thrive.
This initiative builds on UNSW’s long-standing presence in Liverpool’s health and education ecosystem and reflects the university’s broader mission to create inclusive, future-focused opportunities across Greater Western Sydney – home to over 2.5 million people, including 20% of UNSW students and 14% of staff.
New Opportunities for Local Founders
In total, $41,000 in non-dillutive funding will be awarded to accelerate health and entrepreneurial ventures from South West Sydney.
Roseus Prize for Early-Stage Health Innovation
$5,000 prize exclusively available to migrant and refugee women entrepreneurs from Liverpool, awarded to the most promising early-stage health innovation idea. Supported through a philanthropic donation from Stephen MacMahon AO and Robyn Norton AO.Roseus Scholarships for Health Innovation Founders:
Two $10,000 scholarships exclusively available to migrant and refugee women entrepreneurs from Liverpool who are selected into the Impact X Pre-Accelerator program (Health stream). Supported through a philanthropic donation from Stephen MacMahon AO and Robyn Norton AO.JEINA Inspire Grant for Women in Entrepreneurship
Up to $4,000 to encourage women from the Liverpool community, particularly those from migrant and refugee backgrounds, to join the program, supported in collaboration with UOW iAccelerate.JEINA Ignite Grants – New Wave Program
Two $5,000 grants open to UNSW students, staff, and alumni across all technologies.JEINA Prizes for Entrepreneurial Excellence
Two $1,000 awards for Liverpool Pitch Night.
Strengthening Entrepreneurship in South West Sydney
With a population of over 2.5 million and one of the fastest-growing demographics in the country, Greater Western Sydney is home to one in every 11 Australians. This partnership supports the region’s first dedicated health entrepreneurship program, designed to help researchers and innovators translate health and medical ideas into scalable ventures.
The George Institute for Global Health contributes world-leading expertise in addressing unmet medical needs and ensuring new solutions are community-driven, affordable, and impactful. Their involvement connects local founders with global research excellence and a mission to create healthier, more equitable societies.
JEINA (Justice Inclusion Access) creates pathways for displaced and migrant women, ensuring under-represented voices take a leading role in health innovation and entrepreneurship. Their lived-experience approach embeds inclusivity and diversity at the heart of the ecosystem.
UNSW Founders builds on its investment in Liverpool by embedding entrepreneurship programs that support local founders, accelerate medical research translation, and contribute to job creation in the region.
Together, we are addressing local community needs while aligning with government and precinct priorities to drive innovation, equity, and economic growth across the Liverpool Innovation Precinct.
A Partnership Driving Inclusive Innovation
The George Institute brings global expertise in health innovation, reinforcing its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs through accessible and community-driven solutions. Since 2019, TGI has partnered with UNSW Founders through the Pre-Accelerator and Health 10x Accelerator programs, supporting early-stage founders developing innovative health solutions that address unmet medical needs
JEINA will expand opportunities for displaced and migrant women, ensuring their voices and innovations shape the future of health and entrepreneurship. "This work is deeply personal. By creating space for displaced women to be seen, heard, and empowered, we’re not just supporting individuals - we’re supporting our local communities to become more cohesive, resilient, and just." - Dr Parisa Glass - Founder of JEINA
UNSW Founders will deliver the programs locally, continuing its mission to build Australia’s most inclusive and impactful entrepreneurship ecosystem. “UNSW has been part of the Liverpool community for more than 35 years, and our commitment today is stronger than ever. Through initiatives like the Liverpool Innovation Entrepreneurship Program, we’re investing in local founders, students, and changemakers to turn bold ideas into real impact for South West Sydney and beyond.” – Professor Attila Brungs, Vice-Chancellor and President, UNSW Sydney
About the Partners
The George Institute for Global Health is a leading independent medical research institute focused on tackling the world’s biggest health challenges through equity, resilience, and innovation.
JEINA (Justice Inclusion Access) is a UNSW initiative created by women with lived experience of displacement, dedicated to supporting the educational and professional growth of migrant and refugee women.
UNSW Founders delivers some of Australia’s leading entrepreneurship programs, supporting students, staff, alumni, and the broader community to translate ideas into impactful ventures.