Delivered in partnership with the University of Dundee, the Academic Accelerator is designed to uncover and support entrepreneurial talent emerging from Scotland’s academic community.

This fully funded 8-week programme helped students, recent graduates, academics, and spin-outs develop early-stage business ideas into viable propositions. From concept development to pitching, participants received expert support to transform their thinking and unlock new opportunities.

The programme welcomed:

• Current University of Dundee students
• Recent graduates (within two years)
• University staff, academics, and academic spin-outs

Applicants came from a wide range of disciplines with one thing in common: the ambition to turn bright ideas into business success stories.

The in-person accelerator, hosted at Dundee’s Centre of Entrepreneurship, featured:

• A packed schedule of workshops, mentoring sessions, and industry insights
• Hands-on support to develop business models, validate ideas, and refine pitches
• Access to a thriving entrepreneurial network and experienced facilitators
• A peer group environment to encourage collaboration, motivation, and momentum

Participants left with enhanced confidence, a stronger sense of entrepreneurial direction, and real-world skills to take their ideas forward.

Scotland’s future economy depends on harnessing the creative and intellectual capital of its academic institutions. The Academic Accelerator supported that mission by:

• Empowering a new generation of entrepreneurs
• Supporting commercialisation of academic ideas and research
• Helping to drive innovation-led growth in Dundee and beyond

By bridging the gap between higher education and enterprise, this accelerator created an environment where ideas could thrive – and turn into tomorrow’s high-impact ventures.