15 Competitions, Accelerators, and Grants to Explore

This week was the first day of spring, which means we are finally into longer days, sunshine, and new opportunities popping up like the daffodils in the park!

In the excitement of spring and the future of iced latte season, I wanted to share some events and opportunities for you to keep your eyes on.

Maybe you are looking at Q2 with excitement, or are on the search for a programme that can catalyze your business. If you’re exploring your options, take a look at this round up of some international grants, competitions, and accelerators, ranging from support for female founders to sustainability startups. Kind reminder, I am just the messenger, so please look into each opportunity to see if you would be a fit.

(And if you know any that can benefit the community, do share!)

Grants/Collaborations

• Open Horizons Project (May 19) for EU based or Horizon Europe Associated country women-founded startups in digital or deep tech, with the opportunity for both funding and corporate partnership support

• UKRI Translation: Proof of Concept (May 13) funding support for early to mid stage research commercialization for UK companies

• Water Innovation Challenge (April 8 ) UK water focused innovations and ventures looking for collaboration, funding, and support.

Education Opportunities

• AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship (April 12) for founders or leaders of a registered nonprofit serving underserved communities or needs in health systems.

• Crossover Learning Exchange Program (Spring) Virtual programme for emerging African market startups looking for support and VC engagement

• Yozma Fellowship for UK students to explore the Tel Aviv entrepreneurship ecosystem

Pitch Competitions

• MSDUK Innovation Challenge (March 27) Up to £20,000+ of prize funding, MSDUK membership, and corporate mentorship opportunities for ethnic minority owned businesses in the UK.

• Entrepreneurship World Cup with GEN (May 2026) Apply to pitch on a global stage, especially if you are interested in the Global Entrepreneurship Network and opportunities in the MENA region.

• Leading Ladies Pitch Competition (April 1) Up to $15,000 in funding and support for women-owned businesses; can pitch online or at their event in Canada

• Pitch at Scale London (closing soon) for female, nonbinary, and underrepresented founders to pitch their ventures for exposure to investors

Accelerators 

• Morgan Stanley Inclusive and Sustainable Ventures (March 31) Seeking startups and nonprofits in health and well being, environment, economic empowerment, and education to support with their accelerator

• Y Combinator (May 4) one of the world’s most prestigious accelerators/funds in SF are opening their summer cohort

• Carbon 13 (March 30) venture builder programme that blends scientists, technologists and operators to form climate focused startups

• TRUK Accelerator (March 31) for international sustainability startups interested in the UK market and furthering their impact and business model

• TechStars Anywhere Accelerator Register your interest for the late summer program

Last Thoughts

Don’t be afraid to ask around for advice or tips from alumni on these programmes, accelerator portfolio companies, or competition winners. It is always helpful to get firsthand advice before (and sometimes even after) applying!

Have something in your mind about accelerators, incubators, or competitions that you want answered? I would be happy to answer any in the QoD!

If this has been useful to you or if you have feedback to improve, please drop me a quick line. Or share with a friend!