Bank urges new businesses to apply to its accelerator programme

Lanarkshire entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses are being urged to apply to join one of the UK’s leading accelerators, as Royal Bank of Scotland prepares to welcome a record number of new businesses to its accelerator programme in September.

Up to 2500 places will be available for free to entrepreneurs – and the closing date for applications is set for August 16.

The bank’s Accelerator programme, which was recently ranked amongst the top 30 best start-up hubs in Europe by the Financial Times, has supported thousands of entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

Evidencing the support available, a record-breaking five Accelerator members took home a share of the £1.5 million prize pot at the 23rd Scottish EDGE awards in May.

Royal Bank has been at the heart of Scottish business for nearly 300 years, today supporting one in three business across the country at every stage, scale and sector.

The Accelerator programme provides a range of support through the hubs across Scotland.

This includes expert coaching, access to a wide network of like-minded peers, and a programme of thought leadership and events, all designed to help fledgling businesses to unlock new markets, attract new talent, access growth funding and to build leadership skills and scalable infrastructure.

The programme is free for participating Lanarkshire businesses and entrepreneurs do not need to give up any equity in their business to take part.

Interested entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses can apply to join The Royal Bank of Scotland’s Accelerator programme for free by visiting here.

Heidi Simpson, regional Accelerator director, Royal Bank of Scotland, told Lanarkshire Live: “Wraparound support is paramount when it comes to supporting ambitious businesses to grow.

“As Scotland’s biggest bank for start-ups we understand what businesses need to succeed – and we provide this support in our accelerator hubs.

“Scotland boasts a dynamic and innovative community of start-up and growing businesses, and now have the opportunity to be part of our biggest accelerator network ever.

“ I’d encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch before the August 16 deadline.”

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