Entrepreneurs in Wales have just days left to apply for the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator, with applications closing on Monday 15 September 2025.
The fully-funded, 10-week online programme runs from 30 September to 12 December 2025 and is designed exclusively for founders with high-growth business ideas. The accelerator focuses on helping early-stage entrepreneurs secure their first customers, test assumptions, and lay the foundations for future investment.
Participants follow a step-by-step approach to shape their business ideas, build sustainable models and generate revenue. Weekly webinars, masterclasses and one-to-one mentoring are combined with peer networking to connect founders across Wales.
The programme also covers using AI for creativity and market research, practical tools to reduce time to market and improve efficiency, alongside PR and marketing opportunities to help raise visibility.
Eligible applicants must be based in Wales and present a pre-revenue business idea that has the potential to:
• Reach £1 million in annual turnover by 2029
• Create 10 or more full-time jobs by 2029
• Export internationally
Lucy McCarthy-Christofides, founder of ADHD supplement business Môr and a previous participant, said the accelerator was pivotal in moving her idea forward:
“The Start-Up Accelerator gave me the structure and confidence to move from idea to action. It turned Môr from a solo mission into a focused, fundable business, and reminded me I didn’t have to do it all alone. If you have a strong idea and the drive to test it with real customers, I’d encourage you to apply before 15 September.”
Programme Director Fiona McLaren emphasised the urgency of the deadline: “This is the final call for applications before 15 September. We’re looking for strong business ideas from founders who have identified a customer problem and early signs of demand. Across ten weeks, we focus on execution — testing assumptions, refining pricing, and using AI to save time on research and admin. The programme is fully funded, so there is no fee to take part.”
The accelerator also provides barrier funding and adjustments to support entrepreneurs with access needs or caring responsibilities, ensuring participation is as inclusive as possible.
Richard Selby, Chair of the Institute of Directors Wales and a judge for the Accelerator awards, said: “Good ideas move faster with structure, challenge and the right connections. The Start-Up Accelerator brings those ingredients together in a practical way that helps founders make measurable progress and strengthens the wider Welsh economy.”
How to apply
Applications must be submitted by 15 September 2025. Entrepreneurs can apply online
With no fee to participate, one-to-one support and weekly milestones, the accelerator offers aspiring founders a unique opportunity to transform their ideas into fundable businesses while contributing to Wales’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Read more:
Final call for Welsh entrepreneurs to apply for Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator