Start-up Programme

Key dates for 2023/24

Applications open: Tuesday 4 June 2024

Application deadline: Wednesday 10 July 2024 (Midday)

Launchpad: Tuesday 23 – Wednesday 31 July 2024

To submit an application, visit Application for InnovationRCA Start up Programme.

Early stage start-ups accepted into the InnovationRCA Start-up Programme receive pre-seed funding, introduction to Design & Impact Fund Managers, business mentoring, access to workshops and office space at InnovationRCA in the Rausing Research Building, Battersea South.

Our standard offer includes:

• £10,000–100,000 investment from the RCA and/or Design & Impact Fund 
• Business plan and product coaching
• Masterclasses tailored to plug gaps in your knowledge and equip you with skills to grow your start-up
• Introductions to our industry networks and partners including accountants and lawyers
• Great publicity and PR opportunities
• Office space at InnovationRCA and continued access to RCA workshops
• Access to tools, contract templates and manufacturing database

• RCA student, graduating this year
• RCA Graduate
• RCA Staff
• RCA Former staff

The RCA gets a small share in your start-up, depending on the amount invested and the market your company addresses. You will need to sign:

• A simple shareholders agreement which will work with any future investors
• A simple service agreement

In addition to our standard offer of seed funds, business mentoring, office space in the InnovationRCA incubator and access to the RCA workshops, successful applicants are also introduced to investors.

A new Design & Impact S/EIS Fund to back RCA start-ups, spinouts and alumni managed by Infinity Asset Management LLP.