SYDNEY: Scalare Partners Holdings Limited (ASX: SCP) said Tuesday it has acquired Fishburners, one of Australia’s most influential startup communities, in a cash-only deal aimed at preserving the 15-year-old organization’s legacy while expanding Scalare’s reach across the national innovation ecosystem.
The acquisition, completed through an asset purchase agreement, includes the Fishburners brand, programs, intellectual property and associated community assets. No employees, liabilities or other assets were transferred as part of the deal, which the company described as not material to its overall financial position.
Founded more than 15 years ago, Fishburners has played a significant role in supporting Australian entrepreneurs through coworking spaces, events, mentorship and founder programs. Under the agreement, Scalare intends to maintain and strengthen the Fishburners brand while integrating it into the company’s broader ecosystem.
The move strengthens Scalare’s position within Australia’s startup landscape and expands its founder network, community reach and ecosystem capabilities nationally, the company said.
As part of the integration, Fishburners members will gain access to Tank Stream Labs locations nationwide, including a dedicated Fishburners Hub at Tank Stream Labs’ flagship Kent Street campus in Sydney. Scalare also plans to relaunch Fishburners Pitch Nights and founder showcase programs nationally and establish a Fishburners Investment Vehicle to invest in selected startups emerging from the pitch program, subject to regulatory and commercial considerations.
Following the acquisition, Scalare’s expanded ecosystem will represent more than 40,000 founders and startup participants, over 10,530 supported startups, and a startup alumni base that has collectively raised more than $5.4 billion in funding, the company said.
“Fishburners has been an important part of Australia’s innovation ecosystem for more than fifteen years,” said Carolyn Breeze, chief executive officer of Scalare Partners. “We are proud to continue that legacy and provide founders with stronger pathways to community, education, customers, capital and support. This acquisition further strengthens Scalare’s mission to build one of the most connected founder ecosystems in Australia.”
Tank Stream Labs CEO Bradley Delamare added: “Founder communities remain critically important despite advances in technology and remote work. The strongest startup ecosystems are built through collaboration, connection and shared experience.”
Scalare Partners Holdings Limited is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ticker SCP. The company focuses on supporting early-stage technology startups through community, education, investment pathways and operational support.
