What is the AI Shift?
AI Shift Program, proudly supported by City of Sydney, is a FREE four-part, in-person workshop series built to help underrepresented founders and operators, including: migrants, refugees, culturally and linguistically diverse entrepreneurs, and women, harness the power of AI to drive business efficiency
The program is designed to give underrepresented founders and operators in Sydney practical tools to work smarter, scale faster, and compete with confidence.
Delivered by Catalysr, with NiceTo as a Principal Partner, AI Shift is backed by a community of expert mentors and supportive networks to ensure participants leave with skills that stick and solutions they can implement right away.
The program includes:
4 in-person workshops in the City of Sydney LGA, built for busy teams and practical outcomes
An online resource portal with recordings, tool, guides, and other resources in Notion
1:1 coaching during the programme and for up to six months afterwards
A supportive Slack community of peers, mentors, and alumni
Pathways and perks with our key partner organisations to keep your momentum going after the program
The workshops will focus on:
Each session is designed to give you practical, hands-on experience with AI so you can walk away with something you can use immediately in your business.
Finding the right opportunities - Identifying where AI can have the biggest impact in your business and set a goal of where AI can help improve efficiency within your business.
Getting familiar with AI tools - Explore accessible, easy-to-use AI tools through live demos and case studies.
Building practical solutions - Work alongside mentors to design and test an AI-driven workflow, product, or process to improve efficiency within your business.
Keeping the Momentum Going - Learn from peers by sharing the AI solutions you’ve created, explore ongoing support pathways, and stay accountable through a connected community.
Why you should join?
Zero Cost, Maximum Impact - Invest your time, not your money. This program is completely free for those selected to be a part of it.
Practical, not theoretical - Walk away with at least one AI solution implemented in your business, not just ideas on paper.
Built Around your Goals - Every founder and operator’s journey is unique. AI Shift adapts to your specific challenges through customised coaching and hands-on workshops, so you leave with solutions that fit your goals.
Build your network - Connect with a diverse community of founders, operators, and mentors who will support and hold you accountable long after the workshops end.
Stay future-ready - Gain confidence in using AI so you can scale smarter, move faster, and stay competitive in an evolving business landscape.
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✅ Underrepresented Founders and Operators
✅ Running or operating a startup
✅ Living or Working in the City of Sydney LGA or surrounds
✅ Able to attend the 4 x in-person workshops in October and November
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👉 Application deadline 🗓️ Sunday, 12th October 2025
👉 Program Dates 🗓️ 21st October 2025 - 2nd December, 2025
👉 Workshop 1 🗓️ Tuesday, 21st October 2025
👉 Workshop 2 🗓️ Tuesday, 4th November 2025
👉 Workshop 3 🗓️ Tuesday, 18th November 2025
👉 Workshop 4 & Networking Event 🗓️ Tuesday, 2nd December 2025
All workshops & events will be run in the City of Sydney LGA. Workshops will run after hours from 5pm to 8pm
Participants will also have access to recordings and follow-up 1-on-1 coaching through to February 2026.
You will also have alumni slack access in perpetuity to stay connected with the community.
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How much does it cost?
Nothing! AI Shift is completely FREE for participants, thanks to the support from City of Sydney and our partners.
Who can apply?
AI Shift is open to founders and operators from underrepresented backgrounds. These include: migrant, refugee, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, and those who identify as Women.
Please also see Eligibility Criteria section for additional criteria
Where will the workshops be held?
All four workshops will take place in-person within the City of Sydney LGA. Details of the venue will be shared with accepted participants.
What if I can’t attend all the sessions?
We strongly recommend attending all four workshops to get the most out of the program.
However, you’ll also have access to recordings, resources, and follow-up coaching to catch up if you miss a session.
Applicants who can attend all sessions will be given preference.
Do I need to know anything about AI beforehand?
Not at all! The program is designed to be beginner-friendly and accessible, with plain-English explanations and hands-on activities.
What do I get beyond the workshops?
You will receive six months of follow-up coaching, access to our online resource hub, and entry into a supportive community of mentors and peers to keep you on track.
How do I apply?
Applications can be submitted online below. Once received, our team will review your details and get in touch with next steps.