A photograph of the Seattle skyline.

Indigenous Global Network for Innovation, Technology and Engineering – IGNITE

What is IGNITE?

IGNITE (the Indigenous Global Network for Innovation, Technology and Engineering) is a groundbreaking program supported by Amazon Prime Air, designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who are passionate about careers in engineering and information technology.

The IGNITE program selects a small cohort of students from across Australia for a leadership program and a ten-day immersive experience in Seattle, Washington (United States). Participants will visit leading technology companies and universities, meet with pioneering professionals, researchers, innovators, and explore cutting-edge technological and engineering developments.

This program will also provide opportunities for students to engage across First Nations cultures and share perspectives in a global context.

Aim

IGNITE aims to build a strong, connected community of Indigenous engineering and technology students across Australia. Through a supportive leadership program, it offers valuable professional development opportunities and access to global industries and networks.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible,  students  must:

  • Be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.
  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and be accepted as such by the community in which they live or have lived.
  • Provide written confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity.
  • Be currently enrolled  (part-time or full-time) at an Australian university and undertaking studies  in an engineering, technology or business degree.
  • Hold a current Australian passport that expires no earlier than July 2027, or be willing to apply for a new passport.
  • Either be currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree and  have completed a minimum of 1 year of study;  OR  be currently enrolled in a postgraduate degree or higher.
  • Not be a previous IGNITE participant.
  • Be available to travel between Monday 30 November 2026 – Wednesday 9 December 2026 to participate in IGNITE in Seattle, Washington, USA.

What’s involved?

  • Be part of a network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peers studying engineering and/or technology degrees.
  • Participate in a tailored, pre-travel leadership course with the cohort to advance your networking and STEM management skills
  • Learn from leading industry professionals and researchers that are applying engineering and technological solutions to real world challenges.
  • Opportunity to engage with First Nations cultures in North America.
  • Travel to the United States and enjoy sightseeing and experience American culture.
  • Form connections and networks with leaders in the global tech industry.
  • Explore opportunities and connections for ongoing engagement.
  • Participants will act as ambassadors for the program and provide a written testimony or presentation of their experience upon return.

What does it cost?

There will be no cost for participants. Domestic and international flights, accommodation and food will be covered for the duration of the trip.

Each participant will receive a $500 stipend to spend while overseas.

Participants are expected to apply, pay and obtain their own travel documents required for the program.

Key Dates

Applications Open: Monday 11 May 2026

Applications Close: Friday 3 July 2026 11:59pm

Notification of Application Outcome: Monday 10 August 2026

Travel Dates: 30 November 2026 - 9 December 2026*

*Please allow a few days on either side for domestic travel and time zone differences. These dates are subject to change.

Applications

Submit an application

Application forms can be downloaded here.

Please submit your details, completed application form and required documents to the Qualtrics Form below.

Submit Application Documents

Application process

Applicants will be assessed by a review panel on the following criteria:

  1. Personal statement on your ambitions to be part of IGNITE.
  1. Demonstrated intent to pursue a career in STEM, STEM management and/or with Indigenous communities.
  1. Academic progress.
  1. Contributions to group diversity.

Applicants will need to supply:

  • Confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander eligibility through either:
    • A  signed statement from an incorporated Indigenous organization or Land Council; OR
    • A completed Statuary Declaration Form
    • A written statement verifying eligibility from your University's Indigenous Centre.
  • Personal statement outlining your journey, career goals and interest in being a participant and ambassador of the program.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) no more than 2 pages.
  • Academic transcript of all university results.
  • Proof of enrolment.
  • At least one written academic reference OR  professional  written reference.

References should outline and address the below:

  • Referee’s academic and/or professional position.
  • Referee’s academic and/or professional position in relation to the candidate.
  • Demonstrated abilities and capabilities of the candidate.
  • Personal qualities and characteristics of the candidate.
  • The candidate’s leadership potential in their field of study/work and/or Indigenous community.
  • If applicable, the candidate’s contribution to the Indigenous community.
  • Referee’s contact details (name, title, email address, phone number).

2025 IGNITE

Over a ten-day stay in Seattle, IGNITE ambassadors engaged in a comprehensive program of industry, university, and cultural activities designed to broaden global perspectives and professional capability. The Seattle partner organisations delivered tailored sessions and tours that were valued by students for the relevance to their studies, large scale, and capacity to inspire future career aspirations and form connections.

The program provided exposure to a wide range of disciplines and sectors, including mechanical engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, sustainability, business operations and leadership, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of engineering and technology practice.

Through supportive engagements activities and shared experiences, the program created a community-centered cohort and fostered meaningful professional connections between IGNITE students and staff.

Contact

For any enquiries regarding the IGNITE program, please email engit-indigenous@unimelb.edu.au.