First published 16 July 2026
QUT Excolo! is an innovation pitching competition created to support QUT researchers to enhance their knowledge, experience and engagement with the process of research commercialisation and other alternative pathways to create impact from research.
Excolo! has invested more than $800,000 in researcher-led commercialisation and impact projects.
The Office of Industry Engagement will invest up to $200,000 to fuel QUT innovations this year.
All QUT researchers are eligible to join as a team or individually. Through the program, teams will cultivate and develop QUT ideas, concepts, innovations, technologies, and services to create real world impact.
The Grand Final event on 19 November will see teams pitch for up to $100,000 in investment funding, and remaining finalists can walk away with $5,000 toward their project.
The competition is underpinned by a program of expert coaching, training and workshops, pitching practice, and feedback to help you develop and refine a research opportunity into an investment-worthy proposition.
There is no fee to enter or participate in QUT Excolo! All workshops and resources are free-of-charge for the selected competition participants.
Since 2022, Excolo has invested more than $800,000 in researcher-led commercialisation and impact projects. Many of our finalists and winners go on to receive additional funding, forge industry partnerships, and make a lasting impact.
Watch the Highlights Video from the QUT Excolo! 2025 Grand Final event..
Explore the suite of industry engagement and commercialisation programs on offer.
Find out more, and register your interest to participate in QUT Excolo! 2026.
*Entry is open to QUT Staff and Students. The Intellectual Property must be owned by QUT to be considered for investment funding.
See the QUT Excolo! competition website for Eligibility and Guidelines.
