Celebration event marks success of latest BCP-funded Business Accelerator – and launch of next cohort

Local entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners came together to mark the achievements of those completing the latest Evolve Business Accelerator Programme.
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Rachel Hadfield
June 10, 2025

Local entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners came together to mark the achievements of those completing the latest Evolve Business Accelerator Programme.

The celebration event, hosted by Evolve at the Digital Skills Hub in Boscombe, brought together the 12 businesses from the current cohort of the funded programme, alongside previous participants – who have gone on to grow their own successful ventures locally and nationally – and local business owners who have provided mentoring for this year’s cohort.

The event recognised the progress made by these ambitious founders and offered inspiration through peer connections, shared stories and reflections on the impact of the programme.

The Evolve Business Accelerator – delivered by the team at Evolve and funded by the Boscombe’s Towns Fund – is specifically designed for entrepreneurs and micro-businesses in the Digital, Creative, and Technology sectors. This year’s cohort has included a diverse range of businesses from video production to air sensor technology, marine ballast systems and creative marketing agencies, each has received tailored support to help them overcome early business challenges and build sustainable growth.

Registrations are now open for the next cohort of the programme, starting in September 2025, with 12 fully funded places available.

 

What the Accelerator offers:

Over a six-month period, participants benefit from:

  • One-to-one business mentoring
  • Targeted workshops on key business topics
  • Peer group sessions for shared learning and connection
  • Funding preparation and investment-readiness advice
  • Market access and network-building support

 

The programme is open to:

  • Individuals with a refined business idea or MVP (minimum viable product)
  • Micro trading businesses up to three years old
  • Those based in the BCP Council area
  • Businesses working in or closely aligned with the Digital, Creative, and Technology sectors

 

David Mutton, Business Advisor at Evolve, said: “The celebration event is a powerful reminder of the journey these business owners have taken and the real impact this programme has on local businesses.  It’s been a pleasure to host the Accelerator with such a driven and inspiring group of people, they are always learning and always pushing forward.

“We’re proud to support and champion early-stage ventures – and we’re excited to welcome our next group of ambitious local founders in September.”

Councillor Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations at BCP Council, attended the event. “It was both inspiring and interesting to hear about the experiences of the entrepreneurs who have just completed the Digital Skills Hub Accelerator programme.

“The scheme is clearly delivering a service to local businesses as well as supporting the regeneration of Boscombe through education and opportunity – I urge businesses who fit the criteria to apply for this invaluable support. The Digital Skills Hub and Evolve are making a difference to our local aspiring tech innovators – great work!”

 

How to apply:

Applications are now open at: https://evolveadvisory.co.uk/service/business-accelerator-bcp/

Spaces are limited to ensure high-quality support for each participant, so early application is strongly encouraged.

Authored by:

Rachel Hadfield

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