Enterprise is an area that clearly defines NatWest. As the UK’s biggest bank for business, we understand that SMEs are the lifeblood of the economy and that we have a responsibility to help them build back better.

At the heart of our support for entrepreneurs is our comprehensive Accelerator programme including fully funded mentoring, insight and bespoke coaching, specifically designed to meet the needs of business owners who want to grow and scale their business, regardless of geographic location or sector. We provide entrepreneurs with full wrap-around care, thought leadership, connectivity and access to our shared workspace, all crucial for their success and a strong national economy.

We know that every entrepreneur is different and that the motivations for scaling a business can vary greatly. We also recognise the power of being surrounded by a network of likeminded individuals and specialists which is why we have crafted four distinct pathways; High Growth, FinTech, Purpose Led and Climate Focussed. Developed over the past five years, these programmes have revolutionised the way we support entrepreneurs, and has proven to really work.

Alongside our Accelerator we also offer 24/7 free access to our online support portal Business Builder for all businesses- regardless of stage or size- which includes tools, templates, videos and events plus a live community hosted on Facebook.

Timeline:

The programme starts with an IGNITION session w/c 10th January. The programme spans six months with weekly events and opportunities and monthly coaching sessions.

There is an option to reapply for up to 18 months of support in total*.

Applications for this intake close Dec 10th and virtual interviews will be taking place throughout November and December. Places are limited and the application process is competitive.

Eligibility:

• High Growth - £8k monthly turnover or £50k investment (significant early growth would be considered if trading less than 12 months)

• Climate - No performance criteria, but must be a climate focused business

• Fintech - No performance criteria, but must be a fintech business

• Purpose Led - No performance criteria, but This Accelerator is for businesses who focus on more than simply making a profit. A purpose-led business may be focused on making a positive difference in its community, on social responsibility, and on building sustainable relationships

The first 6 months of support are available to non-banked customers, *subsequent 12 and 18 month cohorts are for NatWest Group customers only inc Mettle.

Applications:

Ready to apply?

https://www.natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html?furl=w_/accelerator

Find out more:

We understand that prospective applicants may have questions or want to better understand what’s on offer (not to mention checking that there really is no catch!) so we have created some virtual Application Events to meet the local team across the Midlands and East of England and find out more, see the 6 month agenda and ask questions (links below).

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natwest-accelerator-applications-event-tickets-192335228847?utm-medium=discovery&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&aff=escb&utm-source=cp&utm-term=eventcard

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/natwest-entrepreneur-accelerator-applications-event-tickets-198840646727

We’d really appreciate if you could circulate to your networks, friends and relevant stakeholders.