AOL Launches DeskAid for Australian NFP Startups

Global mass media corporation AOL has launched an initiative to support Australian Not for Profit startups in need of expert technical support and business insight.

AOL is giving up to three entrepreneurs in the NFP sector the opportunity to work alongside its Australian team for six months or more with access to its experienced professionals and mentors.

“As part of AOL’s commitment to giving back… DeskAid will see the company use its talents to make a real difference by helping those who can make the world a better place,” managing director of AOL Australia and New Zealand Mitch Waters said.

“This startup support program is specifically designed to deliver exactly what early stage Not for Profit companies in Australia need: a community of experienced and well-connected professionals, opportunities to meet with mentors, as well as a fun and dynamic office space in Sydney with plenty of perks.

“The AOL community is proud to provide support for talented entrepreneurs to help overcome the challenges inherent in starting a Not for Profit company.”

AOL said DeskAid would support the winning startups with a range of services for free, including the dedicated desk space with the brainpower of 25 ad tech experts who each will provide one hour a month in the form of ad support, website troubleshooting, insights into what other brands are doing with their marketing or leveraging partnerships to assist.

The launch of DeskAid coincides with Monster Help Day, AOL’s company wide volunteer day where employees worldwide take time out of the office to help their local communities.

“This year marks AOL’s seventh annual Monster Help Day and the company expects it to be the most impactful day yet, taking place across 47 cities with 135 volunteer projects and over 4,000 employees volunteering,” Waters said.

Six organisations will be chosen to pitch for the DeskAid support. Interested NFP businesses can apply for DeskAid before midnight on 15 July 2016.  Click here to find out how to apply.