APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR OCTOBER INTAKE AT CARDIFF’S NATWEST ENTREPRENEUR ACCELERATOR

Applications are now open for October’s intake at the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator in Cardiff.

Entrepreneurs from across Wales are being encouraged to take part in the programme, which helps them scale and grow their businesses. Fully funded by NatWest the six month programme is open to entrepreneurs of any age and at any stage of their business, including larger companies with higher turnovers. It provides successful applicants with coaching and support and office facilities at its One Central Square headquarters.

The accelerator takes in two cohorts of 80 entrepreneurs each year – one in April and one in October.

Siwan Rees, entrepreneur acceleration manager in Cardiff, said: “We’re really excited to announce the opening of the application process for our October intake. The accelerator has helped hundreds of businesses achieve national and international success and we’re really keen on helping more businesses achieve their goals. Crucially, the businesses we support succeed with over 80 per cent still operating after two-years. Our only goal is to help entrepreneurs wherever they are in Wales to succeed.”

Since the Cardiff accelerator launched in 2016, nearly 700 businesses – from Fintech firms to fashion brands – have been through the programme creating a significant number of jobs and raising millions of pounds in investment and funding through the scheme. They include West Wales fashion designer Clare John from Pembroke who joined the programme in April.

She said: “I was told about the Natwest Accelerator programme by my fantastic accountants Sterling and Rees. At first I was a little wary about committing to the programme as it’s a fare distance from Pembrokeshire and time is of the essence to me. But I’m so glad I did.

“The accelerator programme talks a lot about mindfulness which is a massive contributor to how you help to build your brand. The Natwest accelerator has a team with a massive wealth of contacts and knowledge to help all aspects of any modern business. The Hub is amazing place full of energy in the centre of Cardiff I feel very professional when I’m there and all this is free. I’ve been telling all the entrepreneur’s I know to get on board you’ve nothing to loose just gain.”

Entrepreneurs can progress through the Accelerator programme up to a maximum of three times, making 18 months in total. The closing date for applicants is August 26. To apply visit https://www.business.natwest.com/business/business-banking/services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html.