Technology

Posted on July 11, 2018 by staff

New tech accelerator launches in ‘Cyber Valley’

Technology

A new technology business accelerator programme has been launched in the UK’s ‘cyber valley’.

Based at the BetaDen Hub in Malvern Hills Science Park, Worcestershire, the nine-month programme will give ten individuals, SMEs or scale-ups intensive support through technologists, lab spaces, mentors, investment coaching, proof of concept grant funding, events, workshops and commercial meetings.

The scheme will be funded by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and supported by local technology and cyber businesses including Titania and DeepSecure, BetaDen.

The area is home to the highest concentration of cyber companies in the UK and will play host to one of the government’s 5G testbed projects as major firms including Worcester Bosch experiment with 5G using robotics, big data analytics and augmented reality.

“The Midlands is home to more than 17,500 cyber and digital companies and is exploding with talent and potential,” said BetaDen founder and CEO Linda Smith.

“Our aim through BetaDen is to continue this growth journey and position Worcestershire as the UK’s cyber and tech hub outside London, unlocking further trade and investment opportunities for businesses located here.

“What makes BetaDen unique in the accelerator market is its commercial focus and willingness to not only support tried and tested SMEs and scale-ups, but early concepts too. We want to turn encouraging tech ideas into real, successful and fast-growing businesses.

“We will do this by using our powerful network of industry specialists and partners, alongside 5G innovation, to drive commercial growth.

“We look forward to seeing the applications and welcoming our first cohort in October.”

Mark Stansfeld, chair of the Worcestershire LEP, said: “Worcestershire is challenging perceptions and growing its reputation as a tech and cyber hub.

“The launch of BetaDen is a key part of our strategy to attract, build and grow the very best tech talent and businesses.

“Building on the government’s selection of the county for the new 5G testbed project – the £4.8m trial to explore high-tech mobile technology – Worcestershire has the momentum, expertise and industry support to be the home of the leading tech names of the future.”

Applications from across Worcester, the Midlands and UK will be considered until August 17th.