SPARK Salford Launches Fully Funded Accelerator Programme for Greater Manchester SMEs

Businesses across Greater Manchester are being invited to apply for SPARK Salford, a fully funded six-week accelerator programme designed to help ambitious SMEs and scale-ups strengthen their foundations, embrace innovation and unlock sustainable growth.

Based at HOST, MediaCity, the programme combines expert-led workshops, one-to-one mentoring and hands-on support to help founders tackle some of the most common challenges facing growing businesses — from inconsistent growth and unclear strategy to scaling sales, marketing and operations effectively.

The accelerator is aimed at Greater Manchester-based businesses with five or more employees and early traction, particularly those looking to adopt AI and automation tools to improve efficiency and accelerate growth.

Throughout the six-week programme, participants will gain support across key areas including growth strategy, finance and funding readiness, sales and marketing, innovation and technology adoption, and operational scaling. Businesses will also receive access to experienced founders and specialists, alongside collaborative peer learning opportunities within the cohort.

In addition to the practical support provided, participating businesses will also have access to a £2,000 match-funded grant to support growth initiatives, as well as the opportunity to apply for an additional six weeks of dedicated support following the core programme.

The programme officially begins on 22 June 2026, with an optional awareness and recruitment event taking place on 4 June 2026 at 8.30am at HOST Salford, MediaCity.

Applications close on 14 June 2026.

For enquiries, contact: [email protected]