Catalyst Accelerator Programme
Catalyst is an 18-week, 1 day per week, equity-free accelerator for ambitious science and technology founders in the Central South region. It is designed for early-stage businesses with innovative ideas and a viable route to commercialisation.
Through expert mentoring, weekly workshops, strategic guidance and access to an extensive innovation network, the programme helps founders develop the skills, confidence and connections needed to build commercially successful businesses. Participants also receive dedicated workspace for the duration of the programme.
The programme is fully funded and takes no equity.
Who should apply?
Catalyst is suitable for ambitious founders who have:
- An innovative science or technology solution
- A clearly defined problem to solve
- Strong commercial potential
- The ambition and commitment to build a successful business
Founders do not need to have a finished business. They need a strong proposition and the potential to build one.
What participants receive
- Expert one-to-one mentoring
- Practical commercialisation support
- Strategic business guidance
- Investor-readiness support
- Weekly workshops led by experienced specialists
- Dedicated workspace
- Access to the Catalyst alumni community
- Connections across an extensive innovation network
- No programme fees
- No equity taken
- Contributions towards expenses
Catalyst by the numbers
- More than 100 innovative businesses supported
- 85% of alumni businesses still trading
- More than £75 million raised by Catalyst alumni
- 18 weeks of expert support
- 0% equity taken
Programme partners: Health Innovation Wessex, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, Test Valley Borough Council and SETsquared.
Applications close on 11 December 2026. With only ten places available, prospective applicants are encouraged to apply early.
For full details on the Catalyst programme and to apply, please visit the Southampton Science Park website.