Entrepreneurs and ambitious technology start-ups are being invited to EPIC in Paignton on Thursday 5 November for the launch of a new business accelerator designed to help innovative ideas become successful, growing businesses.

The EPIC Entrepreneurship Accelerator is now seeking its first cohort of participants. Based at EPIC, Whiterock Business Park, Paignton TQ4 7RZ, the programme will provide founders with access to specialist advice, mentoring, workspace and equipment to help them turn early-stage concepts into commercial ventures with the potential to scale.

Developed to strengthen support for Torbay's growing hi-tech sector, the accelerator aims to bridge the gap between innovation and commercial success. While EPIC already provides a home for pioneering businesses, entrepreneurs often need additional support to protect intellectual property, secure investment and develop routes to market. The new accelerator has been designed to provide that support, helping to build a stronger pipeline of local technology businesses and creating future employment opportunities for the area.

Through a competitive application process, the annual programme will support a select number of start-ups and entrepreneurs with high-growth potential. It is aimed at founders developing innovative products, services or technologies, whether they are at the concept stage or preparing for their next phase of growth.

Participants will benefit from a tailored package of support, including:

• Specialist business advice and mentoring to develop ideas and plan for growth.
• Workspace and access to equipment at EPIC.
• Workshops, drop-in sessions and bootcamps to build business knowledge and skills.
• Intellectual property support, including IP audits and patent guidance.
• Investment readiness support to help founders prepare for funding opportunities and investor pitches.
• Assistance identifying research and development grant opportunities, including bid-writing support.
• Opportunities to explore partnerships and joint ventures to bring innovations to market.
• Pitch events and demonstration evenings to showcase ideas and connect with potential investors and collaborators.

By supporting businesses at the earliest stages of their development, the accelerator will help create a pipeline of future EPIC tenants, strengthen Torbay's innovation ecosystem and reinforce the Bay's reputation as a centre for technology and digital enterprise.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said: "Torbay has a proud track record of innovation, entrepreneurship and advanced technology businesses. The EPIC Entrepreneurship Accelerator represents an exciting opportunity to support the next generation of founders and help them turn great ideas into successful businesses."

"We know that many entrepreneurs have innovative concepts and the ambition to succeed but can struggle to access the specialist support, expertise and networks needed to take those ideas to the next level. This programme will provide practical support, mentoring and opportunities to help businesses grow and establish themselves here in Torbay.

"By investing in our local innovators, we are helping to create the high-value jobs, skills and business opportunities that will support Torbay's economy for years to come. I would encourage anyone with an innovative technology-based business idea to come along to the launch event and find out more about how the accelerator could help them succeed."

Founders and start-ups interested in joining the first cohort are invited to attend the launch event at EPIC, Paignton, at 5pm on Thursday 5 November. The event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the programme, meet advisors and partners, and discover how the accelerator can help transform ideas into sustainable and growing businesses.

For further information and details on how to apply, contact Richard.Scutt@torbay.gov.uk