Launch 48: Accelerating Innovation

You have an idea. A fantastic idea, but just an idea. What next? You aren’t ready for a full blown accelerator like TechStars or Seedcamp, but you have the makings of something big. Enter Launch 48.

Launch 48 are a pre-accelerator that helps individuals or groups formulate their ideas more coherently, with the intention of making them an attractive proposition to accelerators and incubators. The Launch 48 Pre-Accelerator 8 week program gives start-ups the opportunity to ‘polish’ themselves in preparation for future investment. Launch 48 have biannual intakes to their pre-accelerator program, with a two month part-time schedule of mentoring and networking opportunities that help start-ups develop the core functions of a successful and appealing business model.

Unlike traditional accelerators, Launch48 have a flat rate for the program but take no equity from the companies. In return for their outlay, start-ups are provided with a part-time timetable of mentoring and networking events that offer invaluable access to potential investors and market stakeholders. The process begins within an intensive 48-hour weekend that helps start-ups take their ideas from conception to working prototype.

Mentors and specialist speakers will help shape your idea by bringing together a wide variety of skill sets and capabilities, combining knowledge and expertise of different areas to help progress your business. Teams are formed after a brief pitching event on Friday evening. Saturday is devoted to developing those ideas into viable business models. Sunday is a final polish followed by a presentation to attendees and mentors. And then beers. Obviously.

Launch 48 have an impressive track record for breeding successful start-ups. Commercial Director Simon McCann estimates that more than a third of their participants go onto some of Tech City’s most sought after accelerators, with feeders including Techstars and Seedcamp.

Alumni include Australian course-finders WeTeachMe and online gaming schedulers WeWanna: Play who help gamers organise online participation. As a result of start-ups successes like these, there is increasing excitement surrounding pre-accelerators like Launch 48 and the companies they are helping to develop. In keeping with the community that has sprung up around East London, Launch 48 are based around the notions of collaboration and interconnectedness.

With applications for the next intake now open, why not see what Launch 48 can do to help your start-up prepare for greatness.

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