Four things firms need to know about Sunderland Software City’s Accelerate programme

As Sunderland Software City gears up to launch its new tech start-up programme Accelerate, here are four things businesses need to know about the initiative. 

Masterclass driven approach

Instead of traditional business development sessions, the Accelerate programme offers masterclasses that cater to both start-ups and established SMEs. These sessions cover four key areas:

·      Optimising your tech infrastructure for growth

·      Harnessing data and AI for insights and personalisation

·      Sales and marketing strategies for tech solutions

·      Designing seamless customer experiences

This allows early stage start-ups to have a touch point with the tech ecosystem and helps SMEs educate their workforces in specific areas.

Alongside the masterclasses, businesses will gain access to numerous benefits like expert mentors, industry connections and financial resources.

A focus on retail and esports

The new initiative specifically targets tech product and tech-enabled businesses in retail and esports. 

This allows businesses to harness technologies that enhance customer experiences, allows them to utilise platforms better, increase efficiency and drive growth.

The esports element is in partnership with British Esports. This year, the collaboration onboarded 14 businesses from across the UK.

“With esports, there's a massive trend towards analytics for teams and coaches; because it's such a high-pressure atmosphere, you need to have every edge you can. For retail, it’s all about convenience - how can you make the world more convenient for the end user?” - Hekla Goodman-Parker, head of tech start-ups at Sunderland Software City

You get access to its Newcastle-based 5G lab

Sessions will be held in the 5G lab, a hub for innovation and experimentation with next-generation connectivity. 

Based in Eldon Square, Newcastle, the 5G lab is designed to connect businesses with different technologies, where they can trial immersive tech, work on products, bring customers in and co-work.

Easy application

For North East businesses looking to join the Accelerate programme, all they need is to be registered, have an idea and be able to attend all four masterclass sessions at the Eldon Square 5G lab. 

You can apply for Accelerate here.

The Sunderland Software City Accelerate programme launches in January 2025, with applications closing on January 10. The eight-week course starts on January 22.

To find out more, visit www.sunderlandsoftwarecity.com/project/tech-startup-programme

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