Winton, the global investment management business, recently launched its first data focused accelerator programme, Winton Labs, in partnership with the innovation consultant and tech investor L Marks.
The Winton Labs accelerator will select a shortlist of up to 10 startups working in the fields of client relationship management (CRM), data management and visualisation, compliance and governance to take part in a 10 week programme designed to support the development and growth of their businesses.
The shortlisted startups will be based out of the Winton offices in West London, and will receive mentoring and training from Winton executives and leading industry figures, and operational advice – including legal counsel, accounting and marketing. Participating firms will have access to Winton’s extensive network in an innovative and collaborative community comprised from some of top experts in science, technology and data analytics.
Winton will not be taking any equity from those startup’s shortlisted for the accelerator programme. However, following the completion of Winton Labs, the young companies will have the potential opportunity to receive funding from Winton and a chance to partner with the firm, in addition to all finalists participating in a demo day at the end of the programme.
Owen McCormack, Director, Winton Ventures, said: “The challenge with having a great idea for many entrepreneurs is taking it from concept to product or from an initial product to a thriving and scalable business. Our accelerator programme aims to match these innovators with the industry players that have had years of experience and to connect these promising enterprises to the real marketplace.”
He further explained: “At Winton, we have built a global investment business based on applying the scientific method to the study of data. We believe that we can apply this experience to investing in companies whose business models are predicated on data analysis and are active investors committed to the long-term success of the businesses in which we invest. To that end, our investment is more than just early stage funding so we are delighted to be one of the first investment businesses in the UK to provide tangible, practical support to some of the most innovative young businesses being developed today.”
Stuart Marks, Chairman, L Marks commented: “Winton is offering a fantastic opportunity for startups in data and analytics to really immerse themselves within a leading global investment company. Not only are they offering free office space in a great central location within a buzzing, entrepreneurial environment, but there will be a structured programme of workshops, seminars and mentoring to help them develop their businesses.”
Winton will select those teams and businesses that it identifies with and which fit its entrepreneurial culture. The application process will be open from 28th January until February 21st, with startups at all stages welcome to apply for the chance to pitch their ideas on 22nd March. The shortlisted companies selected to go on to the Winton Labs programme will be announced on March 25th. Apply now!
