In this episode, Managing Partner Tim Whybourne catches up with serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist and TV personality Steve Baxter. They discuss everything from Steves's background, his early wins in business through to his latest venture investing in anything defence-related where many other funds are not able to.

Steve grew up in north QLD before joining the Military at the age of 15 taking on a military apprenticeship in engineering, electronics, and telecoms. His career in the Army spanned 9 years before he left to launch his first start-up called SE Net from his bedroom. This business was eventually acquired by OZemail under the stewardship of ex-Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. In 2001 Baxter teamed up with his schoolmate and serial tech entrepreneur, Bevan Slattery to launch his second start-up in Pipe Networks before selling that to TPG in 2010. Steve founded River City Labs, Brisbane’s well-known co-working hub in 2012 and has been championing Australian startups and entrepreneurs ever since. He has appeared as a ‘Shark’ on Channel 10’s Shark Tank Australia since 2014.

In this episode, we discuss Steves's latest venture in his new fund called Beaten Zone Ventures which aims to invest in early-stage defence businesses that are developing weapons and systems to assist with holding, aiming and controlling weapons in addition to training soldiers to protect them from opposition lethality.

Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast series is for general financial educational purposes only, should not be considered financial advice and is only intended for wholesale clients. That means the information does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider if the information is appropriate for you and your needs. You should always consult your trusted licensed professional adviser before making any investment decision.

Shark Tank’s Steve Baxter: The opportunity for outsized returns in defence through Steve's new Venture Capital Fund – Beaten Zone Ventures