Deadline Date: March 15, 2026
The Digital Catapult is delivering the CreaTech Frontiers Growth Lab to support the growth of creative technology businesses in the West Midlands through bespoke support tailored to each company’s needs.
Developing skills and talent, Funding collaborative research and development (R&D), Supporting business innovation, Progressing along traditional commercialisation pathways, Accessing alternative routes to finance, partnerships, and audiences in the creative industries.
The CreaTech Frontiers Growth Lab provides participating companies with growth support valued at £15,000, designed to help early-stage businesses progress from Proof of Concept (PoC) toward achieving their own specific growth goals. The programme is tailored to each participant, allowing companies to focus on their unique challenges and objectives during their time in the accelerator.
The programme is part of a five-year, £7.2 million project funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), under UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aiming to establish a thriving creative technology ecosystem across the West Midlands. It supports skill development, collaborative R&D, and business innovation to strengthen the regional CreaTech sector.
The accelerator structure is organized into four tracks to develop key skills for commercial success. Business Health Scans identify the needs of each participant, while Finance support provides guidance on funding strategy, pitch decks, and investment contacts. The Business Growth track builds foundational skills to enable effective market entry, and Tools for Success offers group sessions and one-to-one support with specialists. Coaching and Mentoring provide real-world industry insight and help participants become resilient and productive business leaders.
Eligible applicants must be early-stage companies within the Creative Technology sector, with products or solutions at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or higher and Commercial Readiness Level (CRL) between 3 and 6. Applicants must have a Proof of Concept and demonstrate validation with real-world customers. The programme is open to companies registered in the West Midlands, including Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Herefordshire, Sandwell, Shropshire, Solihull, Staffordshire, Stoke on Trent, Telford and Wrekin, Walsall, Warwickshire, Wolverhampton, and Worcestershire. Companies must also adhere to Minimum Financial Assistance limits, receiving no more than £315,000 in public organisation grant money over a three-year period.
For more information, visit Digital Catapult.
