Deadline: October 05, 2025
The Black Founders Programme is a 14-week accelerator designed for high-growth potential pre-seed or seed stage companies in the creative industries led by Black or mixed ethnic background founders.
The focus of the programme includes health scans with companies to determine current technological, commercial, investment and strategic needs, masterclasses and workshops to develop and improve business planning, commercial strategy, pricing and positioning, operational processes and investment readiness, networking events and tailored introductions to industry leaders, relevant investors and potential customers, business and investment support designed from the health scans, mentoring and coaching from industry experts, peer support, potential for funding opportunities, and access to potential partners, investors, customers, state-of-the-art facilities and deep tech expertise.
The programme is organised by Digital Catapult in partnership with Sony Music UK and Sony Music Publishing UK, and in collaboration with Channel 4. Up to 15 companies will be selected to participate, gaining access to around 20+ hours of structured support while building connections with industry leaders and potential investors. The programme provides each participating startup with a stipend of £3,000 and does not require equity.
Applications close on 5 October 2025. Successful applicants will be announced in November 2025, with the programme running from November 2025 to March 2026. To qualify, applicants must be UK-based pre-seed or seed stage companies in the creative industries, with at least one Black founder or co-founder. Companies must also be seeking to raise investment within the next 12 months and should be working with advanced digital technologies such as future networks, immersive technologies, artificial intelligence, machine learning, distributed ledger technologies, or quantum.
For more information, visit Digital Catapult.
