Bursary re-launched to support BAME tech businesses

SETSQUARED BRISTOL, the University of Bristol-led technology incubator, is re-launching its Breakthrough Bursary for BAME entrepreneurs in a bid to promote inclusion and equal opportunities in the tech industry.

The bursary supports BAME entrepreneurs to access business support for technology startups through SETsquared’s incubation programme.

Its organisers are hoping to attract applications from BAME women, who are a particularly under-represented group.

Mentoring

The Breakthrough Bursary provides access to strategic advice and coaching, including investment readiness training, mentoring, events and advice clinics, as well as access to University of Bristol expertise.

BENEFITS: Glyn Blaize, founder of performance software application NORTHSTAR and a recipient of the bursary (Pic: David Sargent Photography)

Companies also get a fixed desk in a shared office, benefitting from the co-working communities at SETsquared.

Glyn Blaize, founder of performance software application NORTHSTAR and a member of the first cohort to receive the bursary, said: “The Breakthrough Bursary has been a great support and brilliant treasure trove for NORTHSTAR. Whether attending a seminar, to prepping for investment, there is support for every step of the startup scaleup journey. I would definitely say SETsquared will add some serious nitro to your startup engine.”

The Breakthrough Bursary was one of a number of key recommendations from a SETsquared funded research report published in 2018, and rooted in research with BAME tech entrepreneurs.

Growth

Lisa Matthews, SETsquared Bristol Incubation Manager, said: “Inclusive and sustainable growth is more vital than ever in a post-COVID world, and it has been proven that diverse business ecosystems will drive innovation and economic impact.

“Last year’s Breakthrough Bursary saw an incredible response but we recognise there is plenty more work to be done to provide equal opportunities in tech.”

Sandeep Roychowdhury, a SETsquared Bristol mentor, said: “I look forward to meeting and potentially mentoring new businesses coming into SETsquared through the Breakthrough Bursary.

“In the future, these entrepreneurs will not only drive inclusive growth in the region but also acquire the potential to advise and mentor upcoming BAME generations that in turn build new inclusive networks and foster more diversity in the future of tech.”