Technology businesses across Worcestershire and the Midlands have just one week left to apply for a place on a first-of-its-kind accelerator programme, launching at the Malvern Hills Science Park in September.
BetaDen, which is open to entrepreneurs, start-ups and established firms from across the area and region, is a nine-month programme that will see up to 10 businesses gain access to high-calibre technology, business mentors, proof of concept funding* and quality refurbished office space at its hub in the heart of the UK’s Cyber Valley.
Those selected for BetaDen’s first cohort will benefit from a vibrant, supportive and innovative programme, designed to help them get their next-generation technology idea off the ground, gain routes to market and catalyse further business growth.
Andy Street, West Midlands Mayor, said: “In line with the power of the West Midlands in driving digital and technology innovation, Worcestershire is making a name for itself in emerging areas including 5G, cyber security, robotics and artificial intelligence; bolstered by globally-recognised firms such as Worcester Bosch and Yamazaki Mazak choosing it as their home.
‘The Worcestershire LEP’s BetaDen programme will be unique in its ability to be both a launchpad for promising tech ideas as well as a growth driver for SME and scale-up businesses of all sizes. I encourage innovators and businesses across the West Midlands to get your applications in and be part of the next generation of market disruptors, and I look forward to seeing the first programme get started in September.”
The launch of BetaDen, led and funded by the Worcestershire LEP with support from leading local technology and cyber businesses, aims to build on the region’s increasing reputation as a hotspot for technology firms. The initiative will run in parallel to the development of a 5G Industry 4.0 Testbed in Worcestershire, after UK Government awarded £4.8m of project funding to Worcestershire in April 2018.
Linda Smith, Director of Enterprise at the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for technology businesses. The mix of support delivered by expert business mentors and proof of concept funding will mean that all those involved in the BetaDen programme have the right conditions to grow and innovate.
“The Worcestershire LEP is passionate about fostering enterprise and by launching this new accelerator programme we plan to develop the region’s reputation as a hotbed for technological invention. With only a week left to apply, I urge interested businesses to lodge a submission and see how the BetaDen programme could fast-track their growth journey.”
Submissions for the BetaDen accelerator close on Friday 17th August. Those interested in the programme should visit the BetaDen website where they can complete a simple online application, before shortlisted businesses will be invited to a brief interview.
To find out more and apply, visit http://www.beta-den.com or contact the team on 01905 672700 / [email protected].
Stay up to date with BetaDen on Twitter @BetaDenUK and LinkedIn BetaDen.
*Proof of concept grant funding approximate value is £15,000, subject to eligibility
