Are you between the ages of 16 and 23? Do you have a brilliant business idea you’re ready to bring to life? We’re here to supercharge young entrepreneurs like you!
The Lebanese Muslim Association (LMA), in partnership with Salaam, is proud to introduce Launch Pad — a program designed to guide, mentor and propel young talent in our community.
This is YOUR chance to pitch your idea, receive mentorship from leading business mentors and win up to $10,000* in support (resources, services and guidance).
Bring your vision to life today — sign up for Launch Pad!
Your Idea Your Future Your LaunchPad
About LaunchPad
Launch Pad is a program designed to support young people with big ideas and the drive to make them real. Our goal is to give aspiring entrepreneurs the tools, guidance and funding they need to kickstart their journey.
Through a series of interactive workshops, you’ll learn the essentials of business - from sales and marketing to finance and pitching. Alongside expert mentors, you’ll also gain one-on-one advice, connect with like-minded peers and access $10,000* seed funding to help bring your project to life.
Launch Pad isn’t just about starting a business - it’s about building confidence, developing skills and creating opportunities that last well beyond the program.
How to Apply
It’s simple to get started:
Prepare your idea – Write a short business proposal outlining your concept, who it’s for and how it benefits the community.
Create your pitch – Record a short video introducing yourself, your age and your idea (landscape mode preferred).
Submit your application – Complete the online form and upload your proposal and pitch video.
Wait for the shortlist – If selected, you’ll be invited to workshops and later to present your idea in person.
Eligibility: You must be under 23, live in Australia and your idea must align with Shariah principles. If you’re under 18, you’ll need parent/guardian consent.
Selection Criteria
Clarity of Idea – Your business idea should be clearly explained and easy to follow.
Creativity & Innovation – Show how your idea offers a fresh perspective or unique approach.
Community Impact – Highlight how your idea will benefit the community or society.
Practicality – Demonstrate that your idea can realistically be developed with the resources available.
Passion & Commitment – Show your drive, dedication and willingness to learn throughout the program.
Eligibility & Requirements
Who can apply – Applications are open to individuals or teams of up to 3 people.
Experience needed – No prior business experience required. The program suits both beginners and those with developed concepts.
The competition is open to people residing in Australia.
Participants must be under the age of 23 at the time of submission.
Each participant must submit their own, original business idea.·
Joint entries must be explicitly stated.
Entrants must be able to travel to Sydney (Lakemba) if nominated as a finalist, at their own expense
Businesses must be shariah and legally compliant
Final pitch – Finalists must be available to present their ideas at the Launch Pad showcase event.
Prize
$5000 in kind from the LMA + $5000 in kind from Salaam - Prize is not cash, it will be paid to vendors and service providers to set up your company. (For example, registering abn, registering business name, paying for services or products directly related to the business start up, paying contractors for services relating directly to the business.)
Website design - Development, design and registration of the website (WordPress 1 year registration, 1 year domain name)· Branding - designing of the logo, brand guidelines, business cards
Marketing - provide winners with tips and tricks for brand awareness, Google ranking, target audiences, Google SEO, Meta ads and much more.
Mentorship - support, advice and guidance to help get you through the first year of your business start up.
Guiding Young Dreams
Dates to rememeber
Keep these key dates in mind as you move through the Launch Pad program – from applications to workshops, submissions and the final pitch.
Ideas Submission
Why Join
Launch Pad gives young people under 23 the chance to turn ideas into reality. With mentorship, workshops and $10,000* in support, you’ll gain the skills, networks and confidence to launch a business that makes an impact.
Launch your idea with confidence.
Winners receive $10,000* in-kind support, plus branding, website design and marketing
guidance to set up their business the right way.
Mentorship and training.
From public speaking workshops to one-on-one business mentoring, you’ll gain the skills needed to pitch, grow and sustain your idea.
Create change in your community.
Develop a Shariah-compliant business that solves real challenges while building your future as a young entrepreneur.
Meet Our Mentors
Launch Pad is backed by experienced professionals and community leaders who know what it takes to succeed. Our judges bring industry expertise, while our sponsors provide the resources to help turn your idea into reality.
Entrepreneur, investor and community leader with decades of experience in business and finance.
Presenter and community leader known for engaging audiences. Brings energy and professionalism as host of the Launch Pad final pitch event.
Experienced professional with a strong background in finance, business management and strategy. Passionate about guiding young entrepreneurs to build sustainable ventures.
Entrepreneur and mentor with experience in community engagement and business development. Committed to empowering the next generation of Muslim entrepreneurs.
Get seed
funding of $10,000*
Sign Up for launch pad
Have a question about Launch Pad or want to be part of the journey?
Our team is here to guide you through the application, events and opportunities.