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Cambridge Enterprise START Programme

Cambridge Enterprise START — Pre-Seed

Offers pre-seed equity funding for Cambridge-linked founders in science to strengthen real-world implementation.

The START programme is Cambridge Enterprise's pre-seed equity vehicle for founders building science-led and AI startups with a demonstrable connection to the University of Cambridge. Operated under Cambridge Enterprise's Founders at the University of Cambridge suite — alongside SYNC (co-founder matching) and SPARK (four-week residential incubator) — START specifically accelerates ventures reaching

Deploys £20,000 pre-seed equity tickets into science-led and AI startups with a University of Cambridge connection, paired with mentoring and venture building support.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Equity
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: www.enterprise.cam.ac.uk