University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University partner with L Marks to launch local startup program
The Leeds Go-to-Market Launchpad, a new initiative designed to support 30 Leeds-based startups, has been launched by L Marks in partnership with the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Announcing the news in a LinkedIn post, Daniel Saunders, Chief Executive of L Marks, stated:
“We’re delighted to announce our partnership with the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University to launch the Leeds Go-to-Market Launchpad! This program will empower 30 Leeds-based startups to sharpen their go-to-market strategies, connect with corporate customers, and unlock new business opportunities.”
Leeds has established itself as one of the UK’s leading cities for startups. It is supported by a growing network of tech hubs, accelerators, and a highly skilled talent pool from local universities.
Over 1,500 startups have been launched in the city over the past five years, with Leeds ranked second nationally for tech growth and fourth for its digital economy.
The Leeds Go-to-Market Launchpad consists of three key components:
1-Day Bootcamp: Startups will participate in practical sessions designed to address solution design and market entry strategies, focusing on customer engagement and value demonstration.
8-Week Accelerator: Selected startups will receive weekly workshops and one-on-one mentoring to validate their minimum viable products and improve customer acquisition.
Corporate Engagement: L Marks will leverage its corporate network to connect startups with potential customers, facilitating growth opportunities where product-market fit is evident.
Applications for the program close on December 9, 2024, with the initiative concluding in March 2025. Participating startups will have the opportunity to validate their products, refine their strategies, and engage with corporate partners, positioning them for scalability and broader market competition.
Highlighting the program’s impact, Saunders added in his LinkedIn post: “Together, we’re driving innovation and growth in the Leeds startup ecosystem.”
