Image credit – Business Wales

In a bold move to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit of Wales, the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme is calling on the nation’s most ambitious business minds to apply for the pioneering 12-week Start-Up Accelerator Programme. Starting in September 2024, this immersive experience promises to transform fledgling business ideas into robust, revenue-generating enterprises.

Groundbreaking opportunity

The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme is designed to fast-track the development of pre-revenue business concepts through a blend of virtual and in-person sessions. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will receive comprehensive guidance on every aspect of launching a business – from acquiring paying customers to establishing a sustainable business model. Expert coaches will provide targeted support, honing participants’ business acumen and fostering a mindset geared toward success, which is essential for any aspiring entrepreneur.

This exclusive programme is open to all Wales-based entrepreneurs with a business idea that has not yet generated revenue. Applicants must have a vision for their business to achieve an annual turnover exceeding £1 million and create ten full-time jobs by 2028, with opportunities for future export. Recognising the diverse needs of entrepreneurs, the programme also offers support to overcome any barriers to participation.

Comprehensive support and networking

Participants will benefit from an array of webinars, masterclasses, and one-on-one mentoring sessions led by seasoned business role models and growth experts. A significant emphasis on networking will facilitate peer-to-peer learning and business development, providing invaluable insights from fellow entrepreneurs. The programme will also offer PR opportunities to elevate the business profiles of all participants and will culminate in a high-profile awards event to celebrate their achievements.

Richard Morris, programme director of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, emphasises the transformative potential of this initiative: ‘The Start-Up Accelerator Programme will fast-track business development by providing valuable, tailored learning opportunities from industry experts. We have crafted this comprehensive programme to equip participants with the necessary tools and networks to thrive in the competitive business landscape.’

‘This is a can’t-miss chance for 24 aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving growth businesses. We are looking for innovative thinkers ready to take their business concepts to the next level, and we look forward to hearing from applicants with their ideas,’ he adds.

How to apply

Aspiring entrepreneurs interested in this unparalleled opportunity should register their interest by visiting events.newable.co.uk/events/1182/start-up-accelerator. The deadline for applications is Monday, 19 August 2024.

The Start-Up Accelerator Programme is part of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, funded by the Welsh Government, dedicated to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem across Wales.

For those whose businesses are not yet ready for this level of acceleration, Business Wales offers a broad spectrum of start-up and growth advice. To learn more and speak with a specialist advisor, call 03000 6 03000 or visit businesswales.gov.wales.