Wales’ aspiring business owners are being encouraged to take advantage of the latest Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme.
Applications are now open for a new 10-week virtual Start-Up Accelerator Programme, launching on Tuesday, 13 May 2025 and concluding on Friday, 18 July 2025.
Designed to help innovators transform ideas into thriving ventures, the programme combines expert coaching and interactive masterclasses to guide participants through developing a robust business model and securing their first paying customers. Integral to this year’s programme is an emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), with workshops showcasing cutting-edge AI solutions for market research, operational efficiency and creative innovation.
This immersive accelerator is open to Welsh entrepreneurs with pre-revenue ideas that could generate more than £1 million in annual turnover and create ten full-time jobs by 2029, especially those with export potential. Organisers are committed to accessibility, offering support to help reduce barriers to participation.
Andrea Jones, a previous participant and winner of the Accelerator Champion Award in 2024, credits the scheme with helping her launch VisVira, a pioneering business in AI agent assistants and AI employees: “The Start-Up Accelerator Programme transformed my business concept into a market-ready venture. The mentorship and collaborative environment gave me the clarity and confidence to develop VisVira. Participating was invaluable, enabling me to turn my vision into actionable results.”
The new accelerator features a mix of webinars, masterclasses, and one-to-one mentoring delivered by seasoned entrepreneurs and growth experts. Participants can benefit from peer-to-peer networking, PR opportunities to raise their business profile, and a high-profile awards event celebrating their achievements at the programme’s conclusion.
Richard Morris, Programme Director of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, said: “The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme provides participants with the tools, expertise and support networks needed to transform promising ideas into sustainable businesses. By embracing AI and other innovative techniques, we ensure Welsh entrepreneurs are well-prepared to flourish in an increasingly competitive market.”
Richard Selby, Chair of the Institute of Directors (IoD) Wales and a judge for the programme’s awards, concluded: “Wales has a proud tradition of entrepreneurship, and this programme provides an excellent platform for the next generation of business leaders. Through innovation and practical support, the accelerator offers participants a unique chance to turn their bold ideas into thriving enterprises.”
The application deadline for the Start-Up Accelerator Programme is Monday, 31 March 2025, with the programme running from 13 May to 18 July 2025.
Aspiring entrepreneurs eager to propel their ventures to the next level can register their interest here: https://events.newable.co.uk/events/1357/business-wales-start-up-accelerator-may-2025
