By Georgia Smith, 15 January, 2026
Read time: 5 minutes 26 seconds
Kitty Murphy Addison has made the most of every opportunity during her time at QUT. From overseas exchange to QUT Entrepreneurship workshops, networking events to gaining funding for her entrepreneurial adventure, and then actually launching it. We spoke to Kitty about her time studying at QUT and how her Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship and Innovation) has set her up for success.
What first sparked your interest in entrepreneurship?
My passion for entrepreneurship started with the idea of building something of my own, something that could make a positive impact and foster a sense of community. I’ve always been driven by the challenge and independence that come with entrepreneurship, and by the opportunity to help people in ways that differ from traditional paths. From a young age, I’ve loved taking on challenges, helping others and finding creative ways to make a difference, so entrepreneurship felt like the perfect way to bring that together.
Why did you choose entrepreneurship and innovation at QUT?
I chose QUT because of its strong entrepreneurial community and the incredible resources it offers for entrepreneurs. QUT Entrepreneurship has been really valuable throughout my degree, the QUT foundry space and programs like Venture Catalyst, Inside Innovation, and Side Hustle have been instrumental in providing guidance, networking opportunities and the space to turn ideas into something real.
What’s the difference between the Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship and Innovation) and QUT Entrepreneurship?
Entrepreneurship and innovation is a major offered in the Bachelor of Business. This major equips you with the skills to design solutions, solve problems, think strategically and implement innovative ideas. You’ll learn how to identify and grow entrepreneurial opportunities, develop plans, lead with influence and engage with the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.
QUT Entrepreneurship is a university-wide initiative that provides co‑working spaces on campus, mentorship with entrepreneurs‑in‑residence and industry experts, advanced entrepreneurial programs, networking opportunities and Open Pitch Nights.
What is studying entrepreneurship and innovation at QUT like?
My degree has been both rewarding and challenging. It’s pushed me to think differently, work collaboratively and apply what I’ve learnt in real, practical ways.
Every project has built my confidence and creativity, especially pitch assessments where we’ve presented ideas to peers, judges and panels for potential funding.
My degree has been full of hands-on learning experiences, from real client projects to startup simulations, and pitch nights that mimic the entrepreneurial world.
One standout project was developing an investment proposal for Climb ICP, a climbing wall manufacturer. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me understand how to communicate complex ideas and strategies to industry professionals.
The incubator units within the entrepreneurship and innovation major are another example of the incredible hands-on learning opportunities available at QUT. I presented my startup idea to a panel of judges and was awarded a QUT grant to help bring it to life.
I’ve learnt a lot about myself through reflective assignments and realised that entrepreneurship isn’t just about business, but about self-growth and resilience.
Can you tell us more about these incubator units?
The incubator units were a real turning point for me and a highlight of my degree. They combined creativity, strategy and execution, taking us from idea generation to validation, prototyping and pitching.
Working closely with mentors and peers in a fast-paced environment made me realise that entrepreneurship is about constant learning and iteration.
One of the proudest moments of my entire degree was the final pitch in Incubator 2, where I presented my startup idea to a panel of judges and was awarded a QUT grant to help bring it to life.
The process gave me the tools and confidence to start my entrepreneurial journey with MQS Apparel and test it in the real world.
What are the QUT Entrepreneurship and Innovation incubator units?
In the entrepreneurship and innovation major you will engage in two units, called incubators, designed to help you grow and scale your business.
In this risk-free environment, you will design, refine and develop a product or service that addresses a real-world need.
You will also learn how to create a winning pitch deck for a variety of audiences and take part in two funding rounds with lead investors to assist in the development of your product or service.
By the end of the program, you could graduate with a functioning, revenue-generating business, which is exactly what Kitty did.
Tell us about MQS Apparel.
MQS Apparel is more than just a golf apparel brand, it’s a community built to bring like-minded young girls together and help them build confidence and strength through a shared love for golf and fashion. It started as a personal mission inspired by my younger sister, who struggled to feel a sense of belonging in the sport she loved. Seeing that gap in the market motivated me to create something empowering for girls like her.
How has QUT supported you in developing MQS Apparel?
QUT has been instrumental in helping me bring MQS Apparel to life through funding, mentoring and events like Pitch Nights, Pitch Partners and Startup Match-Up. The turning point for me was when I received a QUT grant for the idea; that’s when I realised people believed in it, and I wanted to prove that it could work. Through QUT Entrepreneurship, I’ve developed an incredible network and ongoing support system that has helped me bring MQS Apparel to life.
How have your tutors and lecturers helped you?
Many of my lecturers and tutors are entrepreneurs themselves, which makes their teaching incredibly relevant. They bring real-world examples, personal stories and valuable advice on what it takes to succeed and fail in business. Their experience has encouraged me to take risks, embrace uncertainty, and stay curious. I’ve learned that entrepreneurship isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about being adaptable and persistent.
Entrepreneurial team of the year
QUT has been recognised internationally with the Entrepreneurial Leadership Team of the Year Award at the Triple E Awards in 2025, recognising our commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration at a gala event in Prague.
You also went on exchange. Can you tell us about that?
I spent a semester studying at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, and it was one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve had. It wasn’t always easy: I faced challenges and moments where things felt overwhelming, but it shaped me into a stronger, more independent person. Through the people I met, the countries I visited and the experiences I had, I learnt resilience and adaptability. My background in entrepreneurship helped me approach problems differently and see every challenge as an opportunity to grow.
What’s next?
I don’t have every detail of my five-year plan mapped out, but my goal is to launch and grow MQS Apparel into a thriving, empowering brand for young female golfers. I want to continue using the skills I’ve learned at QUT to create businesses that make an impact and bring people together. Long term, I’d love to support other young founders and continue being part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem that’s given me so much.