FAQ

  • Where can I find out more?

    Please contact Richard Celm or Graham Hewson on 020 7749 4840 with any questions. If you like what you hear, we will arrange a free-of-charge initial assessment with you/your management team and take it from there.

  • What quality standards are in place?

    London Metropolitan University is a member of UK Business Incubation and Gate2Growth - the leading trade associations for this activity in the UK and Europe respectively.

  • Can I get a grant to help pay for it?

    London businesses established for five years or more and employing five or more people may be able to get up to 70% of the total cost paid by the Inner City Entrepreneurs'' Fund. For younger businesses, different areas of London attract different kinds of support - if you have questions about what is available to you, please contact Richard Celm.

  • How long does it take?

    Incubation is a holistic process of development. To derive any lasting benefit, you need to incorporate your work with us into your business practice and understand how it produces results. For that reason, we insist on a minimum six month contract. After that, you can give us one month's notice at any time. We are happy to agree more intensive or longer programmes to fit your circumstances and budget. Whatever the deal, we are confident that you will see the investment returned many times over in increased revenues, improved cashflow and business growth.

  • How does it differ from consultancy or life coaching?

    Unlike consultancy, virtual incubation is pro-active and works by identifying and adding long-term value. It should not be viewed as a contingency or as a ''quick fix'' for a current business problem. Unlike life-coaching, virtual incubation addresses the ways in which the company meets customer need. It does not confuse the owner/manager's identity with that of the business, and can be delivered to a management team as easily as to an individual for no extra cost.

  • What are the benefits to my business?

    Like the ''physical'' offer, Accelerator virtual incubation helps you to find the sources of value in your business that will help you to create and manage its growth. The procedure identifies revenue gains and business process management tools that will make your company attractive to professional investors. Engagement with Accelerator will link you to our networks of investment funds, business angels and venture capitalists