Frequently asked questions
Got a question? Here's your answer.
Is there a fee to participate?
Participation in the accelerator is free of charge but we take a 1.5% equity stake from all start-ups in the cohort and a nominal fee if you are successful in raising investment as a result of connections you have made through the programme.
Where does Breakthrough Labs operate? Do I have to be based in the UK?
No. The Breakthrough Labs programme is mostly online, but we do have 3 mandatory in-person events in the UK at the beginning, middle and end of the 4 months. As long as you can make it to the UK for these events, you can join.
I'm a man. Can I join?
We are a community and "safe space" for women. If you are a male founder with a female co-founder, your start-up can join the accelerator, but your co-founder will need to attend all events.
What is the time commitment?
Like all programmes, you get out of the accelerator what you put into it. Over the 4-month programme, you can expect 3 in-person events and 12 two-hour online workshops covering business concepts that you will need to work on in order for your start-up to be successful.
I'm not sure I need investment. Can I join?
Yes. Our incubator is about much more than pitching for investment, and the pitching skills you learn will help in other areas of your business. We will help you understand what kind of funding is right for you and how much you need.
My product isn't tech. Can I still join?
We are limiting the accelerator to technology companies, but any female founder can join our online community, launching in September. If your product can't be classed as tech, join our upcoming free events!