New push to help tech start-ups in theWest Midlands
ANEW business accelerator programme has been launched to boost West Midlands tech start-ups.
Called ‘ScaleUp Accelerator’, it will allow ten tech start-ups to get support and mentoring with the aim of helping them grow.
The scheme is being run by notfor-profit body Birmingham Tech, in partnership with West Midlands Combined Authority and consultancy Purpose Led Performance and is targeted at local businesses with high-growth potential.
The free, six-month scheme will start in April and support the ten successful applicants by offering workshops and events alongside advice and mentoring from experts who have previously built up tech and digital companies.
Two of the companies will be chosen to work with the combined authority and experts on tech solutions to tackle the climate change emergency.
Birmingham Tech’s chief executive Yiannis Maos said: “We do an amazing job of creating innovative startups across our region and we should be proud that, for the seventh year running, data from the Centre for Entrepreneurs shows the West Midlands is the UK’s start-up capital outside of London.
“However, with investment in tech companies in the city declining, we need to do a better job of supporting those start-ups to ensure they meet their potential.
“Our region has some exciting tech and digital businesses emerging and we hope that, with a bit of help, these companies can go on to benefit the regional economy, create more jobs and become internationally recognised brands we are all proud of.”
The combined authority recently launched its ‘Digital Roadmap’ - a plan to give the region a digital reboot, with the aim of tackling digital exclusion, reaching net zero carbon and supporting a post-covid recovery.
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street added: “Technology will play a key role in our mission to create a zero carbon region by 2041, including through better managing of our resources to cut down waste, helping people transition to green forms of transport and moving away from carbon-heavy sources of energy such as gas boilers.
“On top of that, technology and the green economy is set to drive significant economic growth and create thousands of new jobs across the region.
“That is why it is so critical we support initiatives such as this one by Birmingham Tech, and why we have drawn up a Digital Roadmap for the West Midlands.”
The first cohort will be selected later this month ahead of the programme commencing on April 5.
The successful businesses will then be showcased at the Birmingham Tech Week festival later this year.
Technology will play a key role in our mission to create a zero carbon region by 2041 Mayor Andy Street