How the Technology Developer Accelerator Programme (TDAP) can get you investor ready
Applications for wave four of our successful Technology Developer Accelerator Programme (TDAP) are starting to flood in. If you’re still on the fence about whether this is the right programme for you, here TDAP Manager, Josh Denne, reviews our most recent investor event and discusses how TDAP can help you get future funding.
Earlier this autumn, the APC held its now annual investor event in association with UK Business Angels. Ten companies from previous and current TDAP waves were welcomed to pitch their idea to 100 potential investors. The event was a huge success and all the companies pitching came away understanding the importance of financial planning when looking to seek investment. Since the event, a number of companies have had continued discussions with the financiers present on the day and one project was lucky enough to have more than one backer vying to invest!
At the APC we know that generating new technology is an expensive business; as such TDAP – through its latest competition – is offering successful projects up to £100,000 in funding to bring their concept through the prototype stage and towards a commercially viable, market-ready product or service. Put simply, the 18-month programme acts as ‘commercialisation course’ supporting technology developers on the journey from concept to a feasible market proposition. Along the way, technology developers can expect to benefit from access and advice from industry experts who can help identify routes to market, protect the intellectual property, validate the technology and ultimately, for those that investment is the right route forward, get the company investor-ready.
If you’re looking for early stage investment in your technology, TDAP can help you get the foundations right and reduce the risk of failure at the outset. Lots of early failures in technology can be put down to difficulties with generating interest and money to prove the concept and then prototype it. Getting the basics right means that you’re already meeting the criteria check-list for the many next stage investors. If investment is not the right route forward for you, TDAP can help you accelerate your development, find routes to market and take the next step in your commercialisation journey. Applications close on 15th January 2020 for an April 2020 start. Good Luck!