UK university incubator crowned ‘Hottest in Europe’

SETsquared Bristol has been awarded ‘Hottest Accelerator’ in Europe at The Europas Awards, beating 11 companies to the title.  

The University of Bristol led incubator, based at Engine Shed, supports the growth of technology-based businesses into commercial viability.  

Set up by online publisher TechCrunch in 2009, The Europas has previously recognised the potential of tech start-ups including Spotify, TransferWise, SoundCloud and Babylon Health. 

Steve Edwards, SETsquared Bristol Centre Director, said: “Bristol is now rightfully recognised on a par with other big tech areas like London, and this is because of its culture and expertise, from high-tech businesses and incubators, to the student, academic and research talent emerging from the University of Bristol and beyond.” 

Mike Butcher, TechCrunch Editor, said: “Regional player SETsquared Bristol has helped propel some of the UK’s leading startups to success, including Immersive Labs and Ultraleap, to make the South West a hot area for tech.” 

SETsquared Bristol has supported over 250 start-ups to date, helping them raise more than £500 million of investment. 

In the last year its members raised a record £58m turnover and created 240 new jobs in the city.  

It also reports 27% of its members’ founders/CEOs are women, and 16% of its members’ founders people of colour.