Leeds-based start-ups are gaining a competitive edge with the Go-to-Market (GTM) Launchpad, an accelerator programme designed to fast-track business growth. A partnership between the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, and innovation specialists L Marks, the programme offers structured guidance, resources, and mentorship to entrepreneurs.
After an intensive bootcamp at Nexus, the University of Leeds’ innovation hub, ten start-ups were selected for the eight-week accelerator. They received weekly learning sessions and one-on-one mentoring with experts, while L Marks facilitated corporate engagement opportunities with industry leaders.
This initiative, backed by Leeds City Council’s Innovation@Leeds 2024/2025 programme and funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, aims to refine business models and accelerate commercial readiness.
Among the successful participants is Compost-It, a social enterprise co-founded by University of Leeds alumni Husain Alogaily and Simrun Punjabi. The company focuses on turning food waste into compost and bioenergy. The programme helped them transition from concept testing to acquiring their first set of customers and securing partnerships with local businesses, including the First Direct Arena.
Another participant, Caleb Forbes, founder of TRL Fashion Space, is helping clothing brands become more sustainable. The accelerator proved essential in refining his business model and scaling his operations.
The success of the programme highlights the growing impact of the Leeds Anchor Network, which unites the city’s major employers to drive inclusive growth and innovation. The GTM Launchpad is just one example of how collaboration can foster long-term success in the region.
 Launchpad, an accelerator programme designed to fast-track business growth.){kind=link}