We're thrilled to announce that GC Angels has been chosen by Innovate UK to spearhead the ground-breaking Venture Forward accelerator programme across the North of England. This exciting initiative represents a significant step forward in our mission to break down investment barriers for underrepresented entrepreneurs.
About Venture Forward
The £6.5 million national programme is designed to support up to 160 founders from diverse backgrounds, including:
- Female entrepreneurs
- Diverse background founders
- LGBTQ+ business leaders
- Founders with Disabilities
- Entrepreneurs from low-income backgrounds
- Founders from geographically underrepresented regions
Working alongside our partners Mountside Ventures and Foundervine (London), Firstport (Scotland), and Stronger Stories (South of England), we'll deliver comprehensive support to help talented founders realise their potential.
What We Offer
Comprehensive 8-Week Accelerator Programme
Our intensive programme combines:
- Interactive workshops covering essential business skills
- One-to-one mentoring with experienced professionals
- Investor-led sessions providing real-world insights
- Networking opportunities with key industry players
Direct Investment Opportunities
The most promising founders won't just leave with knowledge up to three standout entrepreneurs from each Northern cohort will receive direct equity investment offers ranging from £50,000 to £150,000 from GC Angels.
Programme Timeline
First Cohort: October - December 2025 (Manchester)
Applications Open: Early July 2025
Second Cohort: Spring 2026
Beyond the Accelerator
Venture Forward extends far beyond individual programmes. We're also launching:
- Underrepresented Investor Charter: Targeting 100+ investor commitments to measurable inclusion practices
- Comprehensive Fundraising Tools: Available to all programme participants and the wider entrepreneurial community
Our Commitment
"We're proud to be working with Innovate UK and our partners to help break down the barriers many founders still face when it comes to raising investment," says Marc Shirman, Head of Investment at GC Angels. "Venture Forward is about much more than funding – we're giving talented founders the skills, confidence, and connections they need to build sustainable, successful businesses."
As the early-stage investment arm of The Growth Company, GC Angels has always championed visionary founders across the North of England. This programme represents a natural evolution of our commitment to fostering inclusive entrepreneurship and driving economic growth across our region.
Ready to Apply?
If you're an entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level, we want to hear from you.
Find out more and apply: gcangels.uk/venture-forward