Robert Gordon University’s flagship entrepreneurial programme returns for its ninth year, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs to turn innovative ideas into reality.
Applications are now open for Robert Gordon University’s (RGU) Startup Accelerator 2027, a six-month programme designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs develop early-stage ideas, build confidence and gain the skills needed to launch a successful venture.
The programme supports RGU students, staff and eligible alumni with innovative business ideas, research projects and social enterprises, providing a flexible programme of entrepreneurial training alongside work and study.
Participants will benefit from access to equity-free seed funding of £2,000, mentoring and coaching, and opportunities to connect with the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem. The programme also offers support to those looking to explore research commercialisation and develop ideas with commercial, social or cultural impact.
The RGU Startup Accelerator has already made a significant contribution to the North-east and beyond, with alumni ventures generating millions in economic impact, winning prestigious national awards such as Scottish EDGE Regional 2025 and Converge, teaching maths to 68,500 children around the world and supporting thousands of North-east families with birthing classes.
The programme’s impact and contribution to entrepreneurship and innovation also helped RGU secure the Higher Educational Institution of the Year award at The Herald Higher Education Awards 2026, following its recognition as a finalist in the Outstanding Business Engagement category.
RGU Startup Accelerator is committed to fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial community, with female founder leads making up 50 per cent of the cohort. International students are also welcome to apply.
Applications for the 2027 programme are open from 14 September to 2 November 2026 and are open to RGU students, staff and alumni within 10 years of graduation who have an early-stage, innovative idea and intend to develop it into a business, social enterprise or other impactful venture. Limited late applications may also be considered during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2026, taking place from 16–22 November.
To find out more and apply, visit the RGU Startup Accelerator webpage.
For further information, contact innovation@rgu.ac.uk.