You’ve Got Questions? We’ve Got the Answers! Everything There Is to Know About the MSDUK Accelerator Programme




What is the MSDUK Accelerator Programme?  

At MSDUK, we understand that ethnic minority businesses often encounter unique barriers and challenges that may not be faced by their non-ethnic peers. Our unwavering commitment lies in acknowledging and addressing these disparities to foster a more inclusive and equitable business environment. It’s this commitment that propelled the launch of the MSDUK Accelerator Programme, which is fully funded by our corporate sponsors, Unilever, WPP, DOW and Google, to help ambitious ethnic minority B2B entrepreneurs, all without taking equity from its participants. 

Our applications are now open for Cohort 4. We aim to educate, challenge and connect B2B early-stage ventures in order to help brilliant founders realise their full potential. Join our thriving community of over 120 committed individuals, including experts, mentors, and facilitators. 


We believe that taking action and implementing learnings quickly is the best way to validate assumptions, develop new perspectives, and reflect on old challenges. That’s why our programme is experiential and hands-on, with a focus on growth and development. Designed with the intention to educate, challenge, and connect, this initiative has been instrumental in fostering a thriving community of like-minded entrepreneurs who support each other. 


During the programme, participants will have access to a powerful network of experts, corporates, and advisors, as well as a supportive community of founders. You will also learn from successful entrepreneurs who have been where you are and can share valuable insights. Let’s delve deeper into the remarkable journey of this programme and what you can expect. 



How do we run our Modules?  

The MSDUK Accelerator Cohort 4 is a four-month programme that will run five modules, each consisting of 3-week learning sprints in the format of: THINK, DO, and SHARE weeks. The modules cover Customer Discovery and Validation, Product Development/Scaling Services, Growth Marketing, Sales and Communication and Pitching. 



THINK 

You’ll gain insights into key concepts and theories through a series of masterclasses led by expert facilitators, as well as guest workshops conducted by external speakers. 

DO  

You’ll put your learning into practice through real-world tasks that you can implement into your business straight away. You can also book 1-2-1 sessions with experts-in-residence and our facilitators for any queries.  

SHARE 

During Share Week, participants will share their experiences on the programme, contributing to a Peer Mastermind session where they can exchange knowledge, insights, and ideas with their fellow cohort members. 



What are the Benefits?  

Participating in the MSDUK Accelerator comes with a multitude of benefits: 


Firstly, you’ll experience hands-on experiential learning, emphasizing quick implementation and validating assumptions. We foster a growth mindset by encouraging fast failure and learning from mistakes.  


Secondly, acquire crucial procurement knowledge, as we guide you through the intricacies of the B2B procurement process, offering valuable tips sourced from MSDUK, corporations, and successful B2B entrepreneurs.  


Thirdly, you’ll have access to an ecosystem of expert facilitators comprised of seasoned entrepreneurs and startup advisors, and dedicated mentors to support your journey providing insights into your specific business challenges.  


Lastly, you’ll become part of a community-driven tribe of innovative ethnic minority entrepreneurs who offer mutual support extending well beyond the programme’s completion. 



How does mentoring work? 

With 1-2-1 support from a dedicated mentor, you’ll have the opportunity to test your ideas, expand your network, and gain a valuable sounding board for your venture upon the successful completion of the programme. Our mentors possess expertise in corporate procurement, B2B sales, and start-up leadership.  

The corporate mentoring journey after the successful completion of the Accelerator Programme offers a chance for personal and professional growth alongside an industry expert, but remember, your input determines the outcome. Your mentor can provide an external perspective on both you and your business, share their own practical experiences, and introduce you to valuable contacts and networks. 


What is the Accelerator tribe? 

The MSDUK Accelerator is not just a programme, it’s a community where founders come together to offer guidance, facilitate relevant connections, and provide tangible assistance to one another. This fosters an inclusive culture where irrespective of your diverse backgrounds, founders share a common lived experience that sets them apart. Each founder brings their unique cultural perspective, enriching the collective insight.  


We call this group of our cohort founders and alumni, the accelerator tribe. Our community-driven approach ensures that the support and camaraderie continue long after the programme has finished. By supporting one another, sharing experiences, and collaborating on future endeavours, these entrepreneurs create a powerful network that transcends boundaries and unlocks new opportunities. 


The MSDUK Accelerator isn’t just a programme; it’s a dynamic community— the accelerator tribe— where diverse backgrounds unite, enriching collective insights and forging a network that unlocks new opportunities. Download our Accelerator Booklet to get a gist of the programme,  read our cohort’s stories, and get tips on how to make your application stand out. Join us on this remarkable journey towards entrepreneurial success and growth. 

“Without MSDUK it would probably be a lot harder in terms of business-to-business sales functions because MSDUK gave us access to get our first client, Enterprise Rent-a-Car and from there we were able to snowball.”

Julie Chen

FOUNDER & CEO
THE CHEEKY PANDA 

FEATURED VIDEO

An Introduction to MSDUK.

“The MSDUK Innovation Challenge not only helped me personally; but included Kapsule in a supportive community. In that community we found our assumptions challenged, ideas stress tested, and received invaluable advice. That’s the power of #Diversity!”

David Chen

Co-CEO
KAPSULE

Corporate Members

Since 2006, we have been at the forefront of driving the supplier diversity movement in the UK. Align with organisations dedicated to supplier diversity and become a part of the MSDUK community. As a member, you will connect with a network of corporate leaders who, are committed to empowering ethnic minority businesses. The companies below represent just a glimpse of our extensive corporate network.

T. +44 (0) 116 2532520

E. [email protected]

A. Studio 5, Phoenix Square,
     3 Burton Street, Leicester LE1 1TB UK

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