NATWEST has launched an “accelerator hub” to support new and growing businesses across the Solent.

The facility in Chandlers Ford will offer four tailored programmes to support start-up and scale-up businesses.

The bank says it wants 2022 to be a record-breaking year for entrepreneurs in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and that the hub will provide support and opportunities to help businesses grow.

NatWest says it wants to hear from entrepreneurs who have a particular passion for being purpose-led or focused on the climate, as well as financial technology (fintech) businesses and high-growth businesses.

Gary Belton, NatWest regional enterprise director, said: “The NatWest Accelerator supports and empowers entrepreneurs and business owners to scale their business to the next level. The bank provides wrap around support and access to expertise, removing barriers and providing more opportunities to help businesses grow.

“This is a unique opportunity for Solent entrepreneurs with an exciting new facility at Chandlers Ford. We focus on the key driver of any business – the entrepreneur – and that is what makes these programmes so unique. With the right level of support and challenge, we can help entrepreneurs to take their business much further and faster, which is what makes 2022 such an exciting year for South West entrepreneurs.”

The four programmes offered at Chandlers Ford are:

  • A purpose-led accelerator aimed at entrepreneurs who are redefining what it means to be a business and supporting a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
  • A climate accelerator for businesses focused on climate change and sustainable success.
  • A high growth accelerator for ambitious firms looking to grow and scale.
  • A fintech accelerator supporting the future of financial technology with access to sector professionals.

Applications are open for programmes starting in January. Each is free and participants do not need to give up any equity.

Each of the programmes provides access to expertise, one-to-one coaching with NatWest’s acceleration managers; a programme of thought leadership and events; access to a network of peers, supported by the bank’s ecosystem managers; and free use of NatWest’s co-working offices in Chandlers Ford subject to Covid rules.

Search online for NatWest Accelerator or visit natwest.com/business/business-services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html.