Accelerator and Programme Playbook

Last reviewed: April 2026

Accelerators and structured programmes can offer a strong alternative to grants when the business needs capability support, commercial access, and rapid iteration.

How they work

Most accelerators combine:

• time-bound cohorts
• structured curriculum and mentorship
• partner introductions and market access
• milestone-based support and review

What they look for

Typical evaluation criteria include:

• team quality and execution discipline
• clarity of customer problem and market need
• traction signals and commercial potential
• ability to execute within programme timelines

When to choose vs grants

Choose accelerators when:

• speed of learning and market access matter more than reimbursement support
• the business needs strategic network effects
• project scope is still evolving

Choose grants when:

• the project scope is clearly defined
• compliance discipline is manageable
• subsidy for eligible implementation cost is a priority

Practical preparation checklist

• define programme objective and expected outcomes
• prepare a concise traction narrative
• clarify resource commitment for cohort participation
• align internal owner and decision cadence

Next step

Continue to Pilot and Innovation Challenge Funding.