Launching a successful startup is no small feat, but for Dominic May, the founder of CoastXP, it’s been a thrilling journey. In 2018, May embarked on a marine adventure that would not only fulfill his passion for marine tourism but also help showcase the beauty of Newcastle and the Hunter region in a unique way. Let’s dive into the story of this young entrepreneur who was recently named the 2023 Newcastle Young Citizen of the Year.
The Birth of CoastXP: Dominic May’s path to entrepreneurship started as a scuba diving instructor, but he had a grander vision. With a degree in Business and Innovation/Entrepreneurship, majoring in Tourism and Management from the University of Newcastle, he took the plunge and launched CoastXP at the young age of 23. His vision was to create a platform where guests could learn about the coastline, history, Aboriginal heritage, local geology, and interact with marine life in a fun and safe environment.
A Growing Success: With unwavering dedication, early mornings, and late nights, CoastXP has flourished. Starting as a one-man show, it has grown into a team of five. The company expanded to offer both land and on-water tours, not only in Newcastle but also in Lake Macquarie. Dominic May’s hard work and vision have truly paid off.
Recognition and Contribution: Dominic May’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2023, he was honored with the title of Newcastle Young Citizen of the Year. This recognition not only celebrates his contribution to local tourism but also acknowledges his role in Newcastle’s post-pandemic economic recovery.
Newcastle: A Startup-Friendly Hub: Is Newcastle a good place to launch a startup? According to Dominic May, it absolutely is. He highlights the small but supportive startup community in the region. May believes in the wealth of local talent and enjoys connecting with fellow startups and collaborating with local businesses to make Newcastle an entrepreneurial success story.
In conclusion, Dominic May’s journey as a young entrepreneur in Newcastle is not only inspiring but also a testament to the opportunities and support available for startups in the region. CoastXP is not just a marine adventure company; it’s a success story in the making, driven by passion, hard work, and a deep love for the coastal beauty of Newcastle and the Hunter region.
This was a great story! I think it’s important to note how you can launch a startup anywhere. Newcastle may have already had a small startup group, but you truly can build the roots for a new company basically anywhere. As long as you have the determination and business sense, which Dominic May doesn’t seem to lack!