Worcestershire’s BetaDen welcomes latest cohort for tech incubator

BetaDen, the Worcestershire-based award-winning organisation dedicated to supporting innovative tech enterprises, has officially launched its new incubator programme, ‘BetaDen Incubate’. This initiative, a collaboration with Barclays Eagle Labs and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, is set to foster the growth of up to 60 start-up businesses across four intakes, housed within the dedicated co-working space at The Kiln in Worcester.

Among the first to secure a spot are ten diverse technology firms, ranging from Access Support, an online platform catering to remote work needs within the Disabled Student Allowance sector, to Silvflame, which offers solutions for managing wildfire risks. Other notable participants include B13 AI, which develops AI software to enhance software project safety, and GraftAR, creators of an augmented reality app that helps visualise products in homes while connecting tradespeople with customers.

Donston Powell, External Affairs Director at BetaDen, remarked on the initiative’s timely launch: “The ‘BetaDen Accelerate’ programme has continually demonstrated the rich pool of entrepreneurial tech talent in Worcestershire. With a noticeable rise in emerging early-stage tech startups over the past year, it’s thrilling to extend our renowned programme to nascent enterprises embarking on their commercial paths.”

The programme promises comprehensive support through face-to-face workshops on vital topics, one-on-one business coaching, access to The Kiln’s office facilities, and a series of networking events tailored to promote growth and visibility among industry peers and the media.

Alex Brookes, Centre Manager and Director at The Kiln, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Collaborating with BetaDen represents a significant opportunity for us to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship, which are fundamental to our ethos at The Kiln.”

Karen Nolan, founder of Bid Essentials and a programme participant, shared her positive early experiences: “The workshops have been incredibly informative and engaging. It’s refreshing to be part of a community of founders who are equally driven and facing similar challenges. The support from BetaDen’s team and mentors has been invaluable.”

The next group of enterprises will join the eight-week BetaDen Incubate programme in September 2024. For those interested in participating, further details can be found at the BetaDen website.