Spark

Spark is the incubator's pre-incubation programme, for people at idea or proof-of-concept stage rather than founders with a product. It is run online, with sessions on Saturdays, and is meant to give idea-stage innovators a foundation before they attempt full incubation. The published cohort is Spark 1.0, and applications are taken during a call-for-applications window rather than continuously.

The programme's stated length is inconsistent across its own pages — eighteen weeks in the lead, forty-five to sixty days further down, and twelve months on the incubator's about page — so ask what the current cohort actually runs.

What you get

• Masterclasses, hands-on activities and mentorship sessions with entrepreneurs and startup coaches
• Networking with fellow founders and coaches
• A certificate on completion
• A route into incubation: shortlisted participants can sign incubation agreements and get mentorship, workspace and makerspace access
• Possible introductions to investors

Who can apply

• Students, recent graduates and young entrepreneurs with a technology startup idea they want to build into a scalable venture
• You can bring an existing idea or develop a new one during the programme
• Themes named are agri and food tech, health and med tech, defence and aerospace, safety and security, sustainability, and deep tech
• Attendance at all sessions is treated as mandatory

How selection works: applications submitted in the call window are screened, and participants are picked on their drive to build something, the technical and commercial viability of the idea, and its social impact.

How to apply: register through the Spark microsite linked from the Join Us menu on the incubator's site, during an open call. The programme's own pages warn that small charges may apply for some activities or materials, so check the current terms before you commit.