Bring an idea. Shape it. Pitch it.

Bring an idea. Shape it. Pitch it.

Bring an idea. Shape it. Pitch it. Bring an idea. Shape it. Pitch it.

The Traction Build Weekend

A focused working weekend for people developing ideas, ventures, start-ups, products, services and innovating in existing businesses.

Friday 19th June, 5pm | Saturday 20th - Sunday 21st June, 9am - 4pm

Some participants arrive with an early-stage concept. Others already have something underway. Some are exploring a startup idea. Others are improving or growing an existing business.

For one weekend, participants step out of the day-to-day and properly work on something they want to move forward.

Focused time | Useful conversations | Practical feedback from experienced entrepreneurs

Across the weekend participants:

  • work out whether an idea has real potential

  • get unstuck on challenges and roadblocks

  • receive practical input from experienced founders and mentors

  • test their thinking in a supportive environment

  • build momentum and confidence

  • leave with more clarity, more confidence and a clearer next step

You can work independently, with existing teams, or alongside collaborators they meet during the weekend.

The environment is practical, supportive and collaborative.

What Happens During the Weekend?

A short overview:

  • Friday = connection and momentum

  • Saturday = focused working sessions and mentor access

  • Sunday = mentor access, refinement and next steps

High Level Schedule

more…

Register
Register

Featured Mentors

Throughout the Build Weekend, experienced founders, operators and industry leaders will contribute as mentors — offering practical conversations, feedback and support as ideas develop across the weekend.

Mentors will spend time moving around the room, joining discussions, asking questions and helping people work through challenges, opportunities and stuck points.

Participants will also be able to book short one-on-one mentor sessions across the weekend, choosing from people with different backgrounds, experiences and expertise.

Meet some of the mentors contributing to the weekend below.

Sales Manager, Integrated ICT

Commercial leader with a strong interest in technology, AI and the emerging opportunities reshaping business. Linkedin

James Macpherson

Passionate about building companies that turn bold ideas into real-world impact

James builds and scales technology businesses that help organisations move faster, solve complex problems and create measurable business transformation. He led the growth of Agility into a recognised enterprise software company, now part of the Aptean ecosystem. LinkedIn

Michael Muller

Creative Director, Mullermind

As Creative Director of Mullermind, Michael brings something to this work that can't be taught in film school: a genuine understanding of the industries he serves. He's been on the tools. He knows what it costs to build something real. And he knows how to make that story land on screen. Linkedin

Michael May

General Manager, Supply Chain Operations

Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-operative

As a Traction Build Weekend mentor, Michael brings a pragmatic, commercially grounded perspective, helping teams sharpen value propositions and translate innovation into strategies that work in the real world. Linkedin

Carmen Watts

Creative Director, Mullermind

Carmen’s focus: make the brand as powerful as the stories it tells. Say the right thing, to the right people. At the right time. Her experience across marketing, brand, and media space means she’ll help you spot the difference between work that looks good and work that actually works.

David Boyes

Strategy Director, Mullermind

David walked away from accounting to follow a camera — and he brought his business brain with him. He wanted to make political films as a kid. That instinct for what matters, what's worth documenting and what deserves a closer look. Direct, determined, and allergic to mediocre work. Linkedin

Lachie Gardiner

Your Questions, Answered

  • The weekend is split into workshops, mentor sessions and working sessions. You aren’t obligated to attend every session, however the weekend is structured so that each sessionbuild on each other, the more you are able to participate, the more you will gain.

  • Participation in the Traction Build Weekend costs $45.

    We want the weekend to be accessible to people with good ideas and genuine interest, regardless of financial circumstances. A limited number of supported places are available for participants who may not otherwise be able to attend.

    If cost is a barrier, you’re welcome to apply for a supported place when you register.

  • Pollinators City Hive is right on Marine Terrace opposite Gemma Bakers. Keep an eye on street parking hours, the rangers are dilligent!

  • No! We welcome anyone with an idea, business or project, that includes:
    • early-stage founders
    • side projects
    • business ideas
    • people innovating within existing organisations
    • creative or community projects

  • Yes, teams are welcome. Just book your tickets under the one registration so we know!

Also on at Pollinators…

AI Builders

A practical space for people exploring, experimenting and building with AI.

Monthly Sundowners

A monthly get together for members of the Pollinators community and those interested