SYNC 1.0 BETA:

Founders at the University of Cambridge combines 20 years of university startup expertise alongside a community of world class University of Cambridge alumni to make our companies successful.

We equip founders for growth through capital investment, multi-stage programmes, mentoring and a global community of experts.

SYNC 1.0 BETA is the new University of Cambridge pathway to connect aspiring founders, from undergraduates to postdocs while they complete their studies or academic research. Recent alumni are also eligible (two years).

Within the beta version programme, people from key disciplines and technical experts are provided with an enabling environment to find co-founders and launch new AI and software startups within 12 months.

The programme is aimed at individuals who wish to solve humanity’s greatest challenges through the use of AI and other emerging technologies and those selected will join an exclusive cohort of up to 30 ambitious people.

During the 10-week initial programme phase, the cohort will attend workshops and founder-led masterclasses three evenings per week. The programme is part-time, fee-free and participants will receive a £2k stipend during those ten weeks.

This is followed by an additional 14-week phase, which concentrates on building the foundations of startups. There will be an opportunity to pitch for £20k from us in investment capital post programme as well as raise additional funds from us to match any investment you raise outside the program.

SYNC 1.0 BETA: THE OFFERING

We offer:

• £2,000 programme stipend.
• No programme fee.
• Part-time programme, can be completed alongside studies or research, three evenings per week.
• Each business is matched with a dedicated Entrepreneur-in-Residence.
• Free office space during programme hours.
• Access to Start 2.0. accelerator workshops, founder stories and community
• Access to more than 180 world class experts from the Founders at the University of Cambridge Community.
• Access to Cambridge Enterprise Ventures’ 100+ list of co-investors with curated intros where appropriate.
• Investment of £20,000 and match funding of an additional £30,000 in selected businesses.

Key dates:

10th September: Launch and open applications for SYNC 1.0 BETA

9th October: Applications close @1200

14th October: Selection period begins

18th November: Programme begins

Apply now.