The Manchester-based scale-up programme, Exchange, has begun its search for tech start-ups to join its fifth cohort.
Exchange’s tech scale-up is now welcoming applications for places on its programme, starting in March 2023. Now in its third year, Exchange has supported over 450 people from over 100 businesses that have created over 120 jobs. The scheme’s tech start-ups have raised more than £10m in funding on their growth journeys.
The programme’s main aim is to support new UK-based tech businesses to fulfil their potential. It offers the use of a physical branch in Manchester’s tech and media centre. Access to industry experts, workshops, and funding opportunities are also all benefits provided by the programme.
Programme partners also cover marketing, legal, technical, hiring and funding functions. The setup looks to provide businesses with a “complete toolkit” to ensure businesses do not lack support in any area.
The scale-up programme is set to take applications until 11 January 2023, with judging and next-stage interviews taking place shortly after.
Pixel Max, a 3D virtual workplace tech business and My First Five Years, a personalised parenting guidance start-up are among the scheme’s alumni. Both have raised over £1million for their businesses since joining as members to the scheme.
Levelling the playing field
Alice Pickersgill, community outreach lead at Exchange Enterprise City, commented on the news. She said: “We’re on the hunt for the next wave of exciting businesses to join our community of entrepreneurs. Over the past three years we have witnessed many success stories and want to continue this by supporting another series of businesses to reach their full potential, with the help of our partners and the ecosystem we have built.
“Scaling a business isn’t a level playing field with considerably fewer people from underrepresented backgrounds having the opportunity to bring their ideas to life. We’re trying to remove these barriers to entry, no matter the circumstances or background of the entrepreneur. We’re enhancing the accessibility of the programme providing 24/7 building access and adding streaming sessions to the scheme so they can work flexibly around existing commitments.
“This year we’ll be working more closely with Exchange alumni and our community to inspire even more people to scale their own enterprises, and make the best use of the ambition, ideas, and determination of people of all demographics.”
Image and article originally from thefintechtimes.com. Read the original article here.