Following strong interest in our recent report Full Speed Ahead, we are convening a roundtable to discuss how Britain can build on its strong network of startup support programmes by improving strategy, funding models and impact measurement. The discussion will drill into where founder needs, company needs and programme design align and diverge, and how funding models and strategies can be tuned accordingly.

The roundtable, hosted by Steve Rigby of Rigby Group, will bring together founders, startup support programme operators and public sector experts to explore what’s practical and likely to move the needle fastest.

Discussion topics will include:

• Would standardising startup support programmes raise baseline quality, help founders choose the right fit, and help funders allocate support more effectively?

• What is the main funding model now, and is there a case for moving to longer-term, adaptable, outcome-linked support?

• How could programme impact measurement be reformed to make it more useful to funders and founders, while not overly burdening programme operators?

Held under the Chatham House Rule, this roundtable is for founders who have been through accelerators, venture builders or similar schemes; experienced startup support programme leads; and public sector actors shaping relevant innovation policies. An anonymised summary of key takeaways will be shared with relevant officials to inform next steps. If you’re interested in contributing to the discussion, please request a place below. 

All of our events are free to attend. Please get in touch if you have any questions regarding accessibility.