Ignite, a leading accelerator programme in Europe, based in North East England, has achieved a significant milestone.
Alumni companies of Ignite have collectively surpassed £100 million in exits since the program’s inception in 2011.
Ignite has been instrumental in advancing early-stage UK startups, with its alumni companies now achieving collective exits surpassing £100 million. This milestone underscores its pivotal role in the startup ecosystem.
Ignite’s success stories reflect its comprehensive support system. The programme has aided over 500 founders with mentoring, workshops, and critical industry connections. This robust support has enabled alumni to raise more than £200 million in early-stage funding and create numerous jobs in high-growth industries.
Ignite returned to North East England in 2021, where recent programmes received support from the North East Combined Authority and Barclays Eagle Labs.
Approximately eight North East startups concluded the final Ignite North East Accelerator phase, preparing for substantial fundraising and engaging with investors and partners in San Francisco.
Tristan Watson, chair of Ignite and one of its co-founders, highlighted the success of companies like GridFinder, Writefull, Guardian Angel, and Overwatch Research. Watson reiterated Ignite’s commitment to fostering innovative startups across the UK.
Stephen “Mitch” Mitchell, CEO of SQCDP, credited the Ignite programme for their ability to raise pre-seed funding and scale their business operations. Mitchell noted the investment’s impact on customer onboarding and team growth.
The concluding phase of Ignite’s most recent programme saw eight North East startups gaining critical support in fundraising and investor meetings.
The £100 million in exits achieved by Ignite’s alumni underscores the accelerator’s crucial role in the startup ecosystem.
With comprehensive support and a strong network, Ignite continues to empower startups, driving innovation and economic development in the UK.