Aspire PreAccelerator

In 2016-17, Aspire Incubator was the newest initiative in the Aspire community.A firm step towards ensuring continued growth and value creation, this tool allowed members of the community to grow their ideas and transform them in successful start-ups, exploring the entrepreneurial environment guided by top mentors. The Incubator became one of the main attraction points in the Alumni community and strategic priority for management, since it allows our members to come forward with ideas and build a successful story. In 2018, the Incubator will take a pre-acceleration form, since our research showed a gap in the market between young entrepreneurs with passion and great ideas and experienced entrepreneurs, who have easier access to funds through their networks. Moreover, the regional market lacks in support offered for non-profit organisations or social projects, making Aspire Incubator a vital tool for the young entrepreneurs who come up with innovative ideas for social global challenges. Through a matchmaking process, talented and entrepreneurial individuals are inspired to discover their co-founders or join existing teams formed around an idea they believe in. After talking with industry experts, participants can refine their ideas and through a 2-day hackathon, they will be able to present it in front of panel of mentors. Up to 10 teams will be awarded with a 4-month Aspire mentorship package, each of the team receiving a project manager, responsible for their development and being able to use the Aspire community resources and networking. During the mentorship period, teams are launching their MVP, getting their first clients and either applying for world known accelerator programs or pitching for their first round of investment.