Funding Options for Startup Founders in South Yorkshire
- Emi Bagshaw
- Apr 24
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Starting and growing a business can be an exhilarating yet challenging journey. For many tech founders, securing the necessary funding is a critical step to making their innovative ideas a reality. A variety of programmes and funding options are available to support aspiring entrepreneurs in South Yorkshire and the North. Here’s a roundup of some exciting opportunities currently offered to startup founders, mostly sector agnostic.
Praeseed Pre-Accelerator
For those at the early stages, the Praeseed pre-accelerator offers critical support in refining your business idea. This programme focuses on helping startups develop a robust business model and gain insights into effectively pitching to investors.
Application extended to 28th April
They also have a new FounderHub, a library of tips, tricks, and techniques from founders, experts and advisers. They're looking for existing founders to submit content to the library.
Regional Talent Engines Programme
Regional Talent Engines by the Royal Academy of Engineering is a unique 6-month programme designed to help early-stage engineering and technology entrepreneurs, based in Northern England, Northern Ireland or Wales, build the foundations for a successful start-up. It provides essential mentorship and guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of bringing your product or service to market.
Apply by 6 May
Shott Scale Up Accelerator
If you’re ready to scale, the RAE's Shott Scale Up Accelerator offers a structured approach to growth. This programme will guide you through the application process, ensuring you have the necessary tools and strategies to elevate your business.
Applications open 7-20 May
Barclays Black Founder Accelerator
Barclays Eagle Labs is running the Black Founder Accelerator, providing support and resources to founders from underrepresented communities. This initiative underscores the importance of building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Applications close 22 May
Invest in Women Hub
You can search for finance, accelerators and incubators from organisations that have committed to supporting women-led businesses on the hub website.
Northern Gritstone NG Studios
Northern Gritstone is dedicated to supporting founders in the North. Their suite of programmes, including NG Studios, provides a collaborative space and resources needed to nurture startups with high growth potential. Whether you're at the idea stage or looking to scale, this programme for tech founders is an excellent launching pad.
SYMCA Funds
The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) offers various funding opportunities to help local businesses. It's worth checking what funds, grants and business programmes they are currently running.
You can also search for current Government grants to see what is available in your niche.
SYMCA have a new South Yorkshire Equity Platform for companies seeking investment. The platform provides businesses with an easy-to-use portal to present your investment opportunities and showcase your potential to investors from across the UK - register for free to get started.
You can also explore options like community development finance institutions (CDFIs) such as the Business Enterprise Fund or Finance for Enterprise, microloans, commercial brokers and asset-based lending.
Launchpad
Launchpad is another fantastic opportunity for startups that provides fully-funded support through resources to help entrepreneurs take their business to the next level. It’s particularly beneficial for founders looking to gain traction quickly.
NIHR Funding Opportunities
For startups in the healthtech sector, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is currently offering funding aimed at reducing waiting times and lists, among other calls. This is an incredible chance to support innovations that can make a real difference in healthcare.
Start Up Business Loans
If you’re looking for financial support, Start Up Loans from the British Business Bank offer access to business loans tailored for new entrepreneurs. This can be an effective way to secure the funding you need to kickstart your venture.
UKRI Funding Finder
Search current funding opportunities from across UKRI, research councils and Innovate UK.
Angel Investors and Venture Capital
Tech founders can also explore funding through angel investors or venture capital firms. A good place to start would be heading to a finance-focused event such as those run by the Digital Forge or Venture.Community. The council business support teams run regular free events about investment and business growth.
In terms of venture capital (VC), there is a new South Yorkshire Growth Equity Fund managed by Foresight Group, and you can find other VC firms that focus on Northern tech companies using our South Yorkshire tech ecosystem map.
Navigating the startup landscape can be daunting, but the funding opportunities outlined above can provide the support necessary to succeed. South Yorkshire is also known for our friendly and supportive tech community. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to grow your business, there's a range of resources available to help you on your journey. Why not explore these options and take the next step towards bringing your innovative ideas to life?
Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences with any of these programmes and others you've found.
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