UWE Bristol is on the hunt for the next set of innovative startups and aspiring entrepreneurs to join Launch Space, the high-impact startup incubator programme.
Over the last 12 months, the programme has worked with more than 30 early-stage start-ups as they develop their ideas and grow their businesses. Many of these companies have already gone on to win grants, secure investment, and grow their team. Based within the University Enterprise Zone (UEZ), the University’s incubator programmes have to date supported more than 130 early-stage businesses. These businesses have raised £52m and created more than 300 new jobs.
It’s now your chance to be a part of all this fantastic activity – applications are open until the 17 October 2022.
What can you expect from Launch Space?
The 20 successful applicants will be invited to attend an exciting induction day on site in October. You will meet your peers, say hello to the innovation team, and get your first introduction to the science and tech community at Future Space.
During your six months with Launch Space, you will have access to tailored one-to-one support, workshops, networking events, and regular advisor sessions to help bring your idea to life.
Working directly with experienced mentors, you can also gain access to a wide range of contacts, industries, and expertise as you get ready to launch your business.
Launch Space is open to graduate-led or early-stage businesses with high-growth potential. The team are looking for those that are working on new and innovative products and services across four key themes:
- Health and life science
- Advanced engineering
- Digital futures
- Sustainability and climate change
You might have a great idea you want to put into action, be in the early stages of developing your business, or need help to validate and develop your business further – either way, we are here to support your journey.
Launch Space is home to a wide range of businesses at various stages on the start-up journey, and you will be working alongside others who have a common goal of making their vision a success.
Award-winning mentor and Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Mark Corderoy, comments, “Launch Space is the perfect environment to create your start-up – a combination of community and one-to-one support, and a track record of success!”
Aimee Skinner works alongside Mark, overseeing the Launch Space programme and mentoring early-stage businesses. She says, “The team has worked with hundreds of businesses over the last few years – the journey is rarely the same! That is why we take the time to work one-to-one with everyone, offering a truly bespoke experience.”
Faiza Idris joined Launch Space in May of this year with her business, FA BYOAQUA. FA BYOAQUA is an innovative aquaponic farm which aims to alleviate food production concerns in locations with limited access to clean water.
Talking about the programme, she reflects, “According to Forbes, 90% of startup fails. To mitigate that risk, I decided to join Launch Space to give my entrepreneurial journey and FA BYOAQUA ltd a good start by taking advantage of the resources available at launch space.
“Launch space has provided a safe environment where I can learn and grow as an entrepreneur. It enabled me to work with other like-minded entrepreneurs. A critical component of Launch space is its vast network of business experts, partners, and mentors such as Aimee and Mark that can assist my company in flourishing.”
If you would like to find out more or speak to the team, email launchspace@uwe.ac.uk – alternatively you can find out more info and apply here.
