WA MTP Sector Spotlight Series ft. Purpose Ventures

Our monthly event series is an opportunity for representatives from across the MTP sector to connect, collaborate and learn about upcoming opportunities, and hear the stories and successes of WA organisations developing health and medical innovations. Join us for networking and conversation over light refreshments at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

This month’s event shines a spotlight on Purpose Ventures as Derek Gerrard and Kylie Gerrard share insights on their mission to support founders and scale up start-ups. Find out about their value-add and support offerings, and what long-term visions and goals are driving the fund.

Details

Wednesday 19 July 2023, from 5:00pm-7:00pm AWST

Ground Floor Auditorium at Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, 6 Verdun Street Nedlands.

Agenda

5:00pm Guided fireside chat

6:00pm Informal networking at ground floor of the Perkins Institute

7:00pm Event close

About Purpose Ventures

Established in early 2023, Purpose Ventures is looking to invest in early-stage companies and has committed 70-80 per cent of its investments in WA-founded or operated businesses. Having raised $37M from WA sources, the fund is predominantly industry agnostic, with 15 per cent allocated for health-related investments.

The WA State Government’s New Industries fund (from the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation) has provided some operational funding for the first three years under its WA Ventures Support (WAVES) program.

Purpose Ventures provides additional value for its companies, such as access to specific expertise a company may need at different points in its journey, extensive networks, use of startup resources, and onboarding to its community platform.

About our speakers

Derek Gerrard – Co-founder and Director

Derek Gerrard is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor with a diverse portfolio of accomplishments. As a Co-founder and Partner of Purpose Ventures, he brings his expertise in business and technology to support innovation and growth in companies in Western Australia and beyond. Derek’s influence extends to the healthcare sector and charity sector as the Chairman of Curve Tomorrow, a digital health company, and Meridian Global, a giving circle and investment charitable foundation. He has extensive experience in fund management, leading the BetterLabs Venture Fund from 2018-2022.

Derek has been recognised for his achievements in multiple awards, notably WA Information Technology and Telecommunications Achiever of the Year, Business News 40 under 40, iiNet Innovator of the Year, and BRW Fast Starters.

Kylie Gerrard – Co-founder and Director

Kylie Gerrard is a highly accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in the startup and innovation ecosystem. As a Co-Founder and Director of Purpose Ventures, she plays a crucial role in driving social impact investments in Western Australia. Additionally, Kylie holds the position of Program Lead at Spacecubed’s Plus Eight, a renowned accelerator program where she spearheads the development and growth of early-stage companies. Prior to her current roles, Kylie served as the Perth Lead for Innovation Bay, an angel investor network. Her leadership and expertise have also led her to become a valuable member of the West Tech Fest organising committee.

For any questions, please contact Rebekah Craggs at rebekah.craggs@mtpconnect.org.au