What is the Deep Tech Accelerator

Unit M is launching a dedicated DeepTech Accelerator for Greater Manchester. This 3-month intensive programme supports research commercialisation pathways and helps technical founders develop science-based innovations into investment-ready DeepTech startups. From AI and advanced materials to life sciences and beyond, we're supporting the ideas shaping our future.  

April-June 2026 | 7-10 ventures | Hybrid format | Applications open January 2026

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‍Who Should Apply

Technical founders, research-driven startups, and researchers exploring commercialisation pathways across: Advanced Materials/Manufacturing & Nanotechnology, Quantum Computing & Photonics, AI and Data Infrastructure, Biotech, Life Sciences & Health, Climate & Energy, Robotics & Automation, and Space & Aerospace. Applications from across Greater Manchester welcome.    

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What We Offer

£25,000 non-dilutive funding distributed across three milestones. Each venture receives dedicated DeepTech commercialisation support from 15-20 specialist mentors. The programme includes customer discovery frameworks, investor readiness preparation, and access to lab facilities. All ventures showcase at Demo Day to investors and strategic partners.  

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Key Dates

Applications open: 12 January 2026

Applications close: 20 February 2026

Shortlist interviews: 26 March 2026

Cohort announced: 30 March 2026

Accelerator delivery: April- June 2026

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WORKSHOP DATES  

April  

09/04/2026- In person kick off workshop 15:00-17:00  

28/04/2026- Online workshop 15:00-17:00  

May  

12/05/2026- In person workshop 15:00-17:00  

26/05/2026- Online workshop 15:00-17:00  

June  

09/06/2026-Online workshop 15:00-17:00  

23/06/2026- In person 15:00-17:00  

24/06/2026- In person 15:00-18:00

FAQs

1. Do you need to be affiliated with the University of Manchester to apply? No

2. Do I need to be affiliated with a University within Manchester? No, we are happy to consider applications from anyone in Greater Manchester that meet the basic eligibility criteria

3. I don't know if my idea/company would be considered DeepTech, can I still apply? If you are unsure about whether you are eligible to apply, please attend one of our information sessions or email us: community@unit-m.co.uk

4. Can I apply if I'm based outside of Greater Manchester? Unfortunately, this accelerator is only open to those based in Greater Manchester

5. I haven't registered my company yet; can I still apply? Yes, we can consider applications from individuals/teams that have not yet incorporated a company as long as there is an evident intention to register by the end of the accelerator

6. How will applications be assessed? Once applications have been reviewed, a list of shortlisted companies will present to an assessment panel before a final selection is made for the cohort.

7. When do applications close? Applications close at 3pm on Friday 20th February

8. What format will the accelerator take? There will 2 workshops each month, one in person and one online. Please see key dates for further information

9. When will the accelerator run? The accelerator will run from April to June. Please see key dates for further information

Register for the online information session, 3^rd February: Deep Tech Accelerator Information Session – Fill in form

Link to apply for the accelerator: DeepTech Accelerator – Application Form – Fill in form

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