DEEP TECH ACCELERATOR
Join our three month programme for deep tech start-ups, technical founders and researchers.
  • Up to £25k equity free funding
  • Specialist mentors
  • Lab space
  • Investor demo day

Apply now

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Unit M is launching a dedicated deep tech accelerator for Greater Manchester.
The three month intensive programme supports research commercialisation pathways and helps technical founders develop science-based innovations into investment-ready deep tech startups across the region. From AI and advanced materials to life sciences and beyond, we're supporting the ideas shaping our future.
We welcome applications from technical founders, research-driven startups, and researchers exploring commercialisation pathways from across Greater Manchester.
FIELDS INCLUDE:
  • Advanced materials, manufacturing and nanotechnology
  • Quantum computing and photonics
  • AI and data infrastructure
  • Biotech, life sciences and health
  • Climate and energy
  • Robotics and automation
  • Space and aerospace
To be eligible, applicants should have moved beyond the idea or early research stage. Researchers should have explored or attempted commercialisation of their research, not solely producing academic work. Non-university founders should have progressed past the idea stage, ideally with prototypes developed or market testing underway. We’re looking to support those who are already on a path toward turning their science and technology into investment-ready deep tech startups.
What we offer
Up to £25,000 equity-free funding distributed across three milestones. Each venture receives dedicated deep tech commercialisation support from a dedicated advisor and access to specialist mentors. The programme includes customer discovery frameworks, investor readiness preparation, and access to lab facilities. All ventures showcase at a demo day to investors and strategic partners.

Apply now

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KEY DATES
14th Jan
Applications open

Apply now

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20th February
Applications close
26th March
Interviews take place
30th March
Successful applicants announced
April–June
Accelerator takes place
01
Do you need to be affiliated with the University of Manchester to apply?
No, we welcome applications from anyone in Greater Manchester that meet the basic eligibility criteria.
02
Do I need to be affiliated with a university within Manchester?
No, we encourage applications from anyone in Greater Manchester that meet the basic eligibility criteria.
03
I don't know if my idea/company would be considered deep tech, can I still apply?
If you are unsure about whether you are eligible to apply, please attend one of our information sessions or email us: community@unit-m.co.uk
04
Can I apply if I'm based outside of Greater Manchester?
Unfortunately, this accelerator is only open to those based in Greater Manchester.
05
I haven't registered my company yet; can I still apply?
Yes, we can consider applications from individuals/teams that have not yet incorporated a company as long as there is an evident intention to register by the end of the accelerator.
06
How will applications be assessed?
Once applications have been reviewed, a list of shortlisted companies will present to an assessment panel before a final selection is made for the cohort.
07
When do applications close?
Applications close at 3pm on Friday 20th February.
08
What format will the accelerator take?
There will 2 workshops each month, one in person and one online.
09
When will the accelerator run?
The accelerator will run from April to June. Please see key dates for further information.
Curious about the programme? Join our online info session.
Tues 3 Feb, 1pm–2pm

Register for the session

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