What the New Hub Means for Local Entrepreneurs
The University of Brighton has partnered with NatWest to open a dedicated accelerator hub in Elm House, the campus home of the School of Business & Law. The initiative is designed to give small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in Brighton and Sussex a free, high‑quality environment to grow, create jobs and strengthen the regional economy.
Key Features of the NatWest Accelerator Hub
- Free Workspace – Entrepreneurs can access modern office space without the overhead of a traditional lease.
- Expert Mentoring – Guidance from seasoned business leaders, academics and industry specialists.
- Masterclasses & Networking – Regular sessions on finance, marketing, export strategy and more, plus events that connect founders with investors and partners.
- Tailored Growth Programs – Structured support that aligns with each company’s stage, from idea validation to scaling and export.
How the Partnership Enhances SME Support
NatWest’s Accelerator Programme has a proven track record of helping thousands of businesses expand. By bringing this expertise to Brighton, the hub will:
- Provide access to venture banking services that can unlock new funding streams.
- Leverage local networks to open doors to suppliers, customers and collaborators.
- Offer export support, helping SMEs tap into international markets.
Benefits for Students and Academic Staff
Students gain real‑world experience by working on live briefs, collaborating with local businesses and building professional networks. Academic staff can embed practice‑based learning into their curricula, ensuring graduates are ready for the demands of the modern economy.
Real‑World Impact Through Collaboration
Professor Catherine Robinson, Dean of the School of Business and Law, highlighted that the hub will “strengthen the University’s position as a regional hub for innovation and SME growth” and give students “unique opportunities to engage with industry, enhance employability and develop entrepreneurial skills.”
Getting Involved – What You Need to Know
Entrepreneurs who want to join the accelerator community should:
- Visit natwest.com/accelerator to review eligibility criteria.
- Submit an application through the University of Brighton’s online portal.
- Prepare a concise pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity and funding needs.
- Attend an introductory session to meet mentors and learn about the program’s structure.
Support for Early‑Stage Start‑Ups
The hub also welcomes university spin‑outs and student‑led ventures. These groups can benefit from:
- Access to the University’s SME support services.
- Inclusion in the Small Business Charter, which recognises the School’s commitment to local growth.
- Opportunities to participate in the Help to Grow: Management programme, a highly regarded initiative that delivers practical business training.
Why the Hub Matters for the Regional Economy
Brighton is one of four UK universities partnering with NatWest under the Equinox partnership, which aims to boost economic growth across the country. By combining academic expertise with financial backing, the hub will:
- Increase the number of high‑growth SMEs in the region.
- Create new jobs and improve skill levels among local workers.
- Encourage cross‑sector collaboration, leading to innovative solutions for regional challenges.
Future Outlook
The NatWest Accelerator Hub at Elm House is scheduled to open in early 2026. Registrations are already live, and the University of Brighton is actively promoting the program to both local businesses and students.
Take the Next Step
Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to scale, a student seeking practical experience, or a local business wanting to tap into university resources, the new hub offers a pathway to growth and innovation.
- Apply now to join the NatWest Accelerator Hub and access free workspace, mentoring and networking opportunities.
- Contact the University of Brighton for more information on how the hub can support your business or academic goals.
- Explore related programs such as the Help to Grow: Management initiative to further develop your leadership skills.
For more details, visit the University of Brighton’s SME support page or reach out to the School of Business & Law directly.
