A leading Welsh start-up accelerator program has honored six entrepreneurs for their breakthrough innovations, marking the end of an intensive 12-week initiative designed to turn business ideas into market-ready ventures.
The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme, funded by the Welsh Government, brought together 21 aspiring entrepreneurs and provided them with expert mentorship, practical support and unparalleled networking opportunities. After three months of rigorous development, the top participants were recognized for their achievements in six award categories:
Sales Accelerator Award: Trystan Lloyd, LYFT Club
LYFT Club bridges the gap between health and fitness practitioners and new customers through its story-based marketing platform. This model increases customer confidence and simplifies the search for reputable wellness services.
Proposition Flex Award: Paul Tomotas, AVA Steel Ltd
AVA Steel Ltd converts waste from the steel industry into sustainable raw materials, such as iron briquettes and zinc concentrates. The innovative methods address environmental challenges while providing cost-effective, green solutions for steel production.
Accelerator Champion Award: Andrea Jones, VisVira Ltd
VisVira Ltd streamlines business productivity with autonomous AI agents that perform repetitive tasks. By easing the operational burden, companies can devote more resources to expansion, innovation and strategic initiatives.
Fastest Seller Award: Dan Newman, BALDILOCKS
BALDILOCKS helps people experiencing hair loss regain their self-confidence through curated wellness experiences. Supported by customers shopping in the ‘Baldiverse’, the business promotes a community-based approach to self-esteem and resilience.
Most Collaborative Participant Award: Osian Evans, GoIawn
GoIawn’s Antur Amser platform promotes Welsh language literacy through immersive, story-driven education technology. With this platform, schools can provide interactive learning experiences that engage students with their language and culture.
Accelerator Award: Gareth Thomas, Solitaire
Solitaire.io is an indie gaming platform that combines solitaire gameplay with collectible playing cards, building a loyal user base and using crowdfunding to fuel expansion. This combination of traditional gaming and brand innovation has quickly captured the imagination of players.
Richard Morris, Program Director of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, praised the cohort: “We are extremely proud of this year’s participants. Their creativity, perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit were extraordinary. These awards celebrate their journey and highlight the transformative potential they have in store for their sector.”
Andrea Jones, winner of the Accelerator Champion Award, highlighted the impact of the programme: “The Start-Up Accelerator Program took my idea from concept to full market maturity. VisVira’s AI agent assistants and ‘AI associates’ are now ready to enter a rapidly evolving landscape with confidence and clarity.”
Now that the program has been completed and the awards have been presented, these entrepreneurs are ready to breathe new life into Wales’ business landscape. Their growth and future success will enhance the region’s reputation as a vibrant, forward-looking hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.