Science Creates Accelerate has announced the launch of its second UK-wide engineering biology accelerator programme, offering support to deep tech start-ups and innovators to advance inventions that will benefit the health of the population.
Last year saw the launch of the first engineering biology accelerator, in partnership with UK Research and Innovation. For 2024, funding is provided again by UK Research and Innovation’s Technology Missions Fund, with support from leading European and US venture capitalists.
This unique partnership, where venture capitalists take no equity and no Right of First Refusal in companies formed through the accelerator, seeks to find the best fit between companies and investors. It aims to intentionally provide deep tech founders and entrepreneurs with the best opportunity to succeed.
The programme is open to anyone with an existing engineering biology start up in its early stages or anyone wishing to launch one.
Amino Collective, Giant VC, Local Globe and Pillar VC are just a few of the firms that join SCVC, Science Creates’ official venture arm, in supporting Science Creates Accelerate.
Dr Harry Destecroix, Science Creates founder, said: “Our objective is to build an internationally recognised accelerator programme that gives the direct training and mentorship that is so important when transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur.
“Neither SCVC nor our partners take any equity or option to invest, which is intentional because we believe the opportunity is both enormous and largely untapped. For us, it’s about getting the best VCs together and developing the best founders to forge great co-investments that will lead to building a new wave of multibillion-dollar start ups that could move the needle in terms of healthcare and sustainability.”
The hybrid programme is to take place at Science Creates’ deep tech hub in Bristol, as well as remotely. Over nine weeks, 24 participants will have access to a variety of training and workshops, plus a network of investors critical to their start up’s journey.
Additionally, successful candidates have the opportunity to unlock equity-free feasibility funding from UK Research and Innovation. Last year’s cohort consisted of 19 companies, eight of which were formed during the programme. Over half of the graduating companies went on to receive equity-free feasibility funding from UK Research and Innovation to help take their ideas to the next stage.
During March, the Accelerator Roadshow will be hitting cities across the UK, including Edinburgh, Manchester, Southampton, London and Bristol. This year, 24 places are available on the programme. Expressions of interest can be made up until Wednesday 3rd April for anyone interested in applying.