A huge boost has been announced for aspiring entrepreneurs in Stoke-on-Trent with the arrival of a flagship start-up programme only-ever offered in London before.
Set to begin next month, Launch IT Labs Stoke-on-Trent will offer a fully-funded programme designed to equip early-stage entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence and momentum needed to succeed in business.
Participants will be given a live pitch opportunity and compete for a share of a £3,000 grant pot to invest directly into their ventures, and will also benefit from expert support, one-to-one mentoring and the chance to connect to other like-minded young entrepreneurs.
A spokesperson said: “This expansion marks a significant moment for Launch It, as it delivers its proven Labs programme outside London for the first time.
“By bringing fully funded start-up support to Stoke-on-Trent, the initiative aims to empower the city’s next generation of entrepreneurs to develop critical skills, access funding, build networks, and scale their ideas with confidence.”
Launch It, a group of UK youth enterprise support charities, opened its first Midlands enterprise centre in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, in May last year.
Launch It Labs Stoke-on-Trent is ideal for 18 to 30-year-olds from the city and surrounding areas who have an early-stage business or a strong idea and are ready to commit to an intensive, in-person experience.
Participants will begin with an online and welcome session on 20 April before the two-day in person bootcamp and pitch competition on 23 and 24 April. Applications are now open via this link.
