Turn innovation into real-world impact

A2I accelerates researchers and innovators within government research organisations to commercialise their ideas and build credibility for investment.

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What is A2I?

Accelerate to Investment (A2I) is a 5-month programme designed to support researchers within government research organisations to develop credible, investment-ready spinout opportunities.  

A2I enables high-quality spinouts to emerge faster by providing participants with the structure, support and investor insight needed to explore investment pathways with confidence.  

The programme supports both individual researchers and the organisations they work within to engage with private capital responsibly and successfully. It enables individuals to turn their ideas into impact, build ventures that can change lives at scale and create public value while maintaining institutional alignment and governance. 

A2I is designed for  

Researchers driven by sustained impact 

You want your work to make a tangible difference beyond publications or internal use. You are motivated by public value and are exploring whether investment could help your innovation reach the people, markets or systems that need it most. 

Innovators navigating uncertainty and risk 

You recognise the potential in your innovation but are cautious about taking the next step. You want a structured, time-bound environment to test assumptions, reduce uncertainty and make informed decisions without unnecessary personal or professional risk. 

Experts curious about investment 

You are curious about private investment and want a credible way to understand how it works, including the language, expectations and realities, whether or not you have run a business before. You are motivated to develop your innovation and ensure the right funding can support its progress. 

Professionals exploring what comes next 

You are at an inflection point, considering how your expertise and innovation could evolve. You want clarity, confidence, and support to determine the most responsible and effective pathway forward, whether through a spinout or another investment-backed route. 

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When joining A2I, you’ll benefit from

  • Learn how to translate technical expertise into a clear, credible story that resonates with investors, without oversimplifying your innovation or overstating claims.

  • Throughout the programme, you will engage in structured pitch practice and workshops with investors and commercial experts. These sessions are designed to build confidence, demystify expectations and provide constructive, honest feedback in a supportive environment.

  • You will receive regular one-to-one enablement from an experienced Growth Enabler, focused on execution, decision-making and prioritisation. This support helps you navigate uncertainty, make progress efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.

  • The programme culminates in investor engagement at a Demo Day, supported by structured preparation. You will graduate with a 90-day forward plan that sets out realistic next steps and continued access to the A2I ecosystem for ongoing connection and support.

Download Programme Prospectus

Eligibility Criteria

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How to Apply

Submit a short application form

Complete an online application outlining your innovation, motivation and organisational context.

Invitation to interview

If shortlisted, you will be invited to a 30-minute conversation with the programme team to explore your goals, context and expectations. 

Application review and decision

Following interviews, applications are reviewed holistically. This stage typically takes up to two weeks. 

Confirmation and onboarding

Successful applicants receive a formal offer and begin onboarding ahead of the programme start.

Register Your Interest to be notified when applications open

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

  • Participants typically commit around one day per week alongside existing responsibilities.

  • Yes. A2I is designed to work with senior-level support and institutional alignment.

  • IP remains with the originating organisation. A2I does not take equity or claim ownership of participant innovations.

  • A2I is a fully funded programme, meaning there is no participation fee. However, we do require participants to engage in sessions.

  • A2I does not guarantee investment. The programme is designed to equip you with the tools, insights and confidence to pitch credibly to investors and engage effectively with the investment ecosystem. 

  • The programme is best suited to participants who have moved beyond a conceptual idea and have some early traction or validation. The programme focuses on building investment readiness rather than developing ideas from scratch.

  • You will need to submit a short online form followed by a brief interview if shortlisted.  

  • Participants gain access to an alumni network, continued ecosystem connections and onward support pathways.