Originally posted by Admin on the Ordnance Survey blog.

With just over two weeks to go until applications close for the Geovation Hub’s latest venture, the Geovation Programme, we take a look at where it started and what entrepreneurs can expect from the Programme.

This month saw the official launch of the Geovation Hub, a collaborative workspace aimed at providing entrepreneurs, developers and innovators unparalleled access to geospatial data and expertise, as well as a place to exchange ideas, innovate and get inspired. In addition to offering membership, the Hub has also hosted several successful talks and events, from the monthly Trend Café (in partnership with Trend Watching) to meetups and lunchtime tech talks.

Hot on its heels has come the launch of the Geovation Programme, a year-long, fully funded development programme supporting entrepreneurs and early-stage start-ups. Funded by commercial organisations including Ordnance Survey (OS), the programme continues to build on the Geovation Hub’s commitment to stimulating and enabling growth in the UK GI economy through innovation.

The Geovation Programme offers up to £20,000 worth of funding, expert technical help and business shaping advice – available for a year for exceptional developers, innovators and entrepreneurs , enabling you to accelerate your location data start up idea.

Applications for the Programme opened earlier this month, with eight spaces available for entrepreneurs with ideas that relate to spatial data or technology and the passion and tenacity to break into this market.

The Geovation Programme has been designed to provide a clear, structured pathway to success with hands-on support throughout the development process. As Residents of the Hub, the eight participants will have access to unrivalled geospatial data and technical expertise, in addition to the funding, seed capital and business development support they need.

Alex Wrottesley, Geovation Hub manager says:

“Whether they need access to experts from Ordnance Survey and the wider geo-spatial industry, business mentors to help make their proposals bullet proof or senior developers who can help them build concept proving prototypes and Minimum Viable Products to attract investors and early-adopters alike, we will be there to support them. What makes this a special prospect for people is that we do not want or expect a penny back. We just want them to succeed. I don’t think there is anything else out there quite like it.”

Applications close on 10 August, so you get your applications in quick!

Selected participants will be invited to interview throughout August, and you’ll find out whether you have been successful in early September.

So what are you waiting for? If you have an idea that you’d like to develop, apply now!

To find out more, or for full information about the Geovation Programme visit: https://geovation.uk//programme/#about

To apply for the Geovation Programme click here.