This summer, Manchester Digital is embarking on an exciting journey with a series of roadshows tailored for early-stage startups. These events, known as the Startup Activator roadshows, kicked off in Urmston on July 23 and will continue across Greater Manchester. Meanwhile, these free workshops form the first wave of a year-long initiative aimed at supporting new businesses.
Funded by the Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnership Programme and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the workshops promise to deliver essential resources to budding entrepreneurs. The goal is clear: to offer startups the guidance and tools they need to grow and thrive. The programme includes interactive sessions and valuable insights, setting the stage for an enriching experience for all participants.
Overview of the Startup Activator Roadshows
A series of informative roadshows tailored for early-stage startups and founders are taking place across Greater Manchester this summer. Known as the Startup Activator roadshows, these events were initiated with a session in Urmston on July 23, and there are more planned for various locations throughout the summer season.
Managed by the region’s tech industry body, this initiative received funding in April from the Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnership Programme, supported by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. The free workshops are the first in a year-long programme aimed at supporting startups in the area. The purpose is to provide new businesses with the resources they need to grow and thrive.
What the Workshops Offer
The roadshow workshops are open to anyone with an idea for a tech business, those considering developing a tech spin-out, and existing tech startups seeking guidance. They include a workshop on the key foundations for growth, an interactive breakout session where attendees can share and refine ideas, and information on the next phase of support that will be available.
Phase 2 of the programme is set to launch in October and will support 100 businesses over six months. This will include a series of webinars, on-demand content, mentoring, expert masterclasses, a community of other founders, and introductions to further resources available in the region. The programme promises fully-funded support for 200 startups and founders over the first 12 months.
Voices Behind the Initiative
Katie Gallagher OBE, managing director at Manchester Digital, emphasised the importance of these workshops: “The Startup Activator workshops are the first stop for founders right across our city region to find out about the ongoing support for startups that we’re rolling out. This year-long programme for startups has been designed by experts and former founders to give a real boost to the region’s startup landscape, and ensure they are fully equipped with the support and knowledge they need to grow and scale-up.”
Alice Pickersgill, who recently joined Manchester Digital to deliver this programme, shared her excitement: “We’re so pleased to offer a free workshop across Greater Manchester, which are designed to be able to reach founders and entrepreneurs from all areas, at all stages and from all types of diverse backgrounds.”
Amanda Allan, Director of Barclays Eagle Labs, also expressed her enthusiasm: “We’re really excited to work closely with Manchester Digital on this expansion of their Startup Activator programme, supporting businesses across the whole of Greater Manchester. Using our Ecosystem Partnership Programme, we’re allocating funding to organisations like Manchester Digital who are already plugged into their regional ecosystems.
Upcoming Roadshow Dates and Locations
The remaining roadshows are scheduled for the following dates and locations: Manchester city centre on July 25, Oldham on August 8, Bolton on September 4, Bury on September 5, Tameside on September 10, Rochdale on September 11, and Stockport on September 12. A date for Wigan will be announced soon.
Attendees can book a free spot via Eventbrite, where more detailed information about locations and specifics will be provided. These events are geared towards fostering a supportive community among tech entrepreneurs and providing them with the tools needed for success.
Background of the Startup Activator Programme
The Startup Activator programme was initially launched in 2023. It aims to offer free support to startups from the idea stage to early traction. It’s supported by several organisations including Bruntwood SciTech, TLT, Kao Data, and Zoho. The programme offers resources, mentorship, and community connections to help new businesses thrive.
This initiative is a response to the growing need for structured support for startups in the region. By having access to experienced mentors and a community of peers, new businesses are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the early stages of development. It also ensures that the local economy benefits from the innovation and growth driven by these new enterprises.
The year-long schedule of activities is designed to build a robust startup ecosystem in Greater Manchester, ensuring that new businesses can get the help they need every step of the way. The support provided is fully-funded, which removes a significant barrier for many founders, particularly those from diverse backgrounds or less privileged circumstances.
The Importance of Supporting Early-Stage Startups
Supporting early-stage startups is crucial for economic growth and innovation. By providing the resources and knowledge that new businesses need, initiatives like the Startup Activator programme help drive local economies forward. This ensures that startups have the best chance of success, which in turn creates jobs and stimulates economic activity.
Early-stage startups often face numerous challenges, including limited funding, lack of experience, and difficulty in scaling their ideas. Structured programmes like this one play a vital role in mitigating these challenges by offering expert guidance, mentorship, and a supportive community.
How to Get Involved
Anyone interested in participating in the roadshows or the broader Startup Activator programme can sign up through Eventbrite. The process is straightforward and provides access to a wealth of resources and support.
The Startup Activator programme aims to reach a diverse range of participants, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the activities and resources on offer. This inclusivity is key to building a vibrant and diverse startup ecosystem in Greater Manchester.
Key Takeaways
The Startup Activator roadshows are a valuable initiative for early-stage startups in Greater Manchester. Offering free workshops, mentorship, and community support, these events provide essential resources for new businesses to succeed.
In conclusion, the Startup Activator roadshows by Manchester Digital promise a wealth of opportunities for early-stage startups across Greater Manchester. With support from prominent organisations and comprehensive resources, these events are a golden chance for new businesses to gain traction and flourish.
The year-long programme, with its free workshops and subsequent phases, emphasises a strong commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth in the region. As these roadshows continue, they offer a pathway for entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of starting and scaling a tech business successfully.