Brighton grows when founders grow

Brighton has always backed new ideas. It attracts creative people, celebrates ideas and turns side projects into serious businesses.

But growth rarely happens alone. Founders need practical support, trusted networks, and the confidence that comes from being part of a community that understands what building a business really involves.

That is why NatWest Accelerator is investing in Brighton and Sussex, and why we are proud to sponsor EVOLVE in partnership with Silicon Brighton. Our goal is simple: to help more local founders through a free membership, access the tools, connections and opportunities that bring their bright ideas to life, driving growth across the city.

A new hub at the heart of the University of Brighton, open to the whole ecosystem

This partnership brings NatWest Accelerator closer to where innovation is happening, with a new hub opening within the University of Brighton’s Moulsecoomb campus at Elm House. It is designed to be a practical, welcoming space where local founders, small business owners, and student entrepreneurs can come together to learn, connect, and build, all for free.

The aim is simple. Make it easier to start, easier to scale and easier to feel part of a community that understands what it takes to grow a business.

The NatWest Accelerator Community is here to help you take the next step.

“If you are building in Brighton, you belong in the NatWest Accelerator Community.”

The NatWest Accelerator Community is designed for founders at every stage, from early ideas to established SMEs, all focused on growth.

As a member, you will benefit from free access to:

1. Dedicated workspace through the hub, giving you space to focus and collaborate

2. Expert-led masterclasses and tailored programmes built around real challenges

3. Mentoring to guide key decisions as you scale

4. Networking that leads to partnerships and opportunities

5. A supportive community that lifts you up and keeps you moving forward

It is about turning ambition into a plan, and a plan into progress.

A powerful partnership for Brighton’s economy

When more local businesses scale, the impact spreads. More jobs. More investment.

Together with the University of Brighton we are creating a hub that can act as a focal point for Brighton’s founder community, a place to meet, learn, and move forward, all for free.

This is a long term commitment to strengthening the local business ecosystem, with the University and NatWest working side by side to back enterprise, unlock growth and create the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The partnership brings deep local roots, academic expertise, and direct access to emerging talent. NatWest Accelerator brings a track record of supporting entrepreneurs across the UK and a commitment to helping businesses grow sustainably.

“Brighton is full of ambition. This hub is here to turn

that ambition into sustainable growth.”

Brighton is full of people with the skills, curiosity, and drive to build something new. But for many students, the gap between a great idea and a real business can feel huge.

The new hub within the University of Brighton makes that leap possible. If you are a student founder, a recent graduate, or part of the wider university community, the Accelerator Community can help you build confidence, find support, and connect with people who have done it before, without costing you a penny.

You do not need to have everything figured out. You just need to be ready to start, ask questions, and keep learning.

Founder ecosystems grow when knowledge is shared, success is visible, and new founders can see a path forward.

EVOLVE in collaboration with Silicon Brighton, helps make that happen. That is why NatWest is proud to sponsor this edition. We want more people building in Brighton and Sussex to discover the NatWest Accelerator Community and access free support designed for growth.

Whether you are starting out or scaling up, this is a chance to learn new skills, grow your business and be part of something bigger.