Generous support available for ambitious technology firms

Thanks to a significant grant from the UK Shared Prosperity fund (UKSPF), an award-winning tech accelerator is looking to sign up ambitious technology businesses in Redditch to a substantial support programme.

BetaDen, who are based in Malvern, have received funding from the UK Government, through the UKSPF which they will use to support technology entrepreneurs and businesses to commercialise their technological innovations. Redditch businesses are encouraged to apply for a place on the accelerator programme and boost their growth.

BetaDen’s latest programme, Cohort 8.0, is designed to help and support successful applicants to supercharge their products’ route to market. Participating businesses will gain access to mentoring, grants, events, marketing, and networking opportunities, amongst other benefits, all at no cost to the business.

Donston Powell, Communications Manager from BetaDen, said: "We are thrilled to have secured this grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to drive our Cohort 8.0 programme forward and look forward to welcoming more Redditch businesses into our next Cohort.

“We have run 7 cohorts prior to this, and all involved have had incredible success. This additional, substantial support enables us to extend our reach to ambitious technology businesses across Worcestershire and empower local entrepreneurs and scale up businesses, cultivating innovation and technological advancement.

“Cohort 8.0 is an exciting opportunity for businesses to accelerate their growth and make a significant impact in the tech sector, so please sign up to be a part of it."
Cohort 8.0 is a 9-month programme that businesses can apply for to access guidance on how to accelerate and promote their products, with the opportunity to showcase them to industry specialists at the end of the course. BetaDen also offers access to Proof of Concept and Marketing grants of up to £12,000.”

Cohort 8.0 is now open for applications until 8pm on March 1st.

BetaDen are also offering a variety of workshops, giving businesses the chance to meet the team and find out more about the mentoring available.  Workshops include “Unlocking Opportunities:  Fundraising for Sustainable Growth” which will be held in Bromsgrove on 25th January. This will be followed by “Connect Tech: Worcestershire Innovation and Business Support” to be held in Worcester on 31st January. Workshops are free to attend.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Gemma Monaco, said: "As Deputy Leader and advocate for our community, I'm thrilled to see great outcomes from projects supported by the UK Prosperity Fund in our area. This latest initiative is fantastic news for Redditch and programs like this not only strengthen our local business community but also open doors for potential future tech leaders, unlocking exciting opportunities for our town."

For more details about Cohort 8.0 or the workshops, or to apply to be a part of the programme, go to www.beta-den.com.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and is providing £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK, investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus