Where vision turns into physical reality.
A 12-week accelerator for embedded tech innovators ready for their next stage of growth.
The Embedded Accelerator is a 12-week programme taking embedded electronics products from early concept to a working and marketable prototype.
For up to 10 ambitious innovators, we offer a cost-effective way to build a physical prototype. Tap into our engineers and equipment as we design your first proof-of-concept, or the next generation of your prototype. Get design-for-manufacture guidance, expert mentoring and more. Our goal? Develop systems that grow with demand.
Innovators with electronics products ready to move beyond the DIY phase. Whether you're a start-up, SME, or researcher, if you're building embedded tech with disruptive potential, ANDtr will help you derisk it, so it's ready to scale.
You're a good fit if you are:
From manufacturing to medtech and femtech, any sector application is welcome. There is no requirement on secured funding, although pre-seed investment is preferable.
What our founders say...
We came into The Embedded Accelerator with a strong research base and an idea for an AI-powered robotic recycling sorter. What we didn't have was a clear view of the market: who actually needed this, what problem it solved for them, and how that should shape the technology choices we made.
The programme changed that. We learned to test our assumptions against real market need rather than technical interest, and we came away with a set of known unknowns we could work through methodically instead of stumbling over later. We also built commercial skills we didn't have going in, including how to pitch in front of investors and frame the technology in terms they care about, not just how it works.
Cohort members receive up to £25k in two-thirds matched funding, offered in exchange for an IP license agreement — with buy-back options at your next raise. No equity is taken.
Between Essex and London, our facilities include electronics equipment, test chambers, rapid prototyping and 3D printers. There is a boutique co-working space where members can upskill, network and collaborate with other embedded tech start-ups on the cohort.
Every cohort fuels the next. A portion of profits will be reinvested to expand funding for future innovators, creating a self-sustaining platform for scalable electronics. Integration with other programmes and services will boost the accelerator offering, helping the members grow beyond the cohort.
Each cohort has the chance to connect with investors throughout the programme and beyond. Includes pitching directly to investors at showcase day, fielding real questions on the spot. Open doors to funding opportunities and lasting relationships with the people backing the future of embedded tech. Contact us if you'd like to be involved as an investor.
We're building our second cohort's partner network now. Sponsorship means early access to founders before anyone else sees them, direct relationships, and a route to market through ANDtr's distributor network. Get in touch to talk through a partnership.
Everything about cost, commitment, funding and eligibility.
The programme will start in late February 2027 and last for approximately 12 weeks.
No upfront fee to join the programme. If you're accepted, you can apply separately for match funding of up to £25,000 towards your prototype development costs.
ANDtr contributes up to two-thirds of your prototype development costs, up to £25,000, in exchange for an IP license agreement with simple buy-back terms — no equity is taken. The exact amount is agreed during the selection process based on your development needs.
On average, you'll spend 2–3 hours per week on the programme, including both virtual and in-person sessions. Some weeks may be more intensive, but we aim to schedule in-person sessions together to minimise travel and make the most of your time.
No — in fact, you do not need to be a registered business yet. However, the accelerator is open only to applicants with a UK presence, as we require cohort members to attend the in-person sessions.
Applications from any sector are welcome, including (but not limited to) medtech, femtech and manufacturing. You must be developing an embedded electronics product at Technology Readiness Level 2 or higher. There is no requirement for secured funding, although pre-seed investment is preferable.
Applications open in October. Apply now.
Access over 400 years of collective experience with our mentors and programme speakers. From manufacturing to business excellence, gain valuable insights, feedback and connections with the very best in the business.
David is an expert embedded software and firmware engineer with over 30 years' experience. As one of the founding members of the Micro:bit Educational Foundation, he played a critical role in delivering over one million micro:bits to UK schools. David brings deep technical guidance paired with first-hand experience of high-volume production.
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Val is the founder of ANDtr. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a Chartered Director, and an Industrial Collaborator at the Institute for Manufacturing, University of Cambridge. Val brings deep expertise in technology management, manufacturing and market launch, and was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award (Electronics Weekly).
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Nicola is the Managing Director of ANDtr and a leading innovation strategist. She predominantly works with start-ups and spin-outs, bringing deep knowledge of cutting-edge technologies and commercialisation. She holds a PhD in Mathematics, sits on the University of Essex Enterprise Board, and is a UK National BSI Committee member for medical devices.
Read more →Dave is an experienced technology leader with over 40 years of expertise in embedded systems and team leadership. Previously Director of Technology at multinational firm Smiths Detection, Dave offers valuable insight into navigating innovation, technology development and market delivery.
Stacey is a freelance marketing and communications consultant, previously Deputy Head of Technology at global agency Aspectus Group. She prioritises a multi-channel approach encompassing branding, PR and digital marketing, with vast technology experience including embedded cybersecurity, femtech and SaaS.
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Peter is an experienced mentor helping visionary technology businesses get product to market. He is an expert in accelerating business growth through robust product strategy and operational excellence, having brought to market products used by countless millions of people daily.
Dave is a nationally renowned mentor and coach. At Henley Business School and the University of Manchester he teaches Master's-level management apprentices, covering finance, entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategy. He is also a Financial Management Consultant to the Financial Times.
Sylvia is an accomplished leader in education and skills development, best known for founding and serving as Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Financial Services. She has shaped the financial sector's approach to training, from leadership development to personal financial management.
Sally specialises in working with SMEs to develop successful business strategy, management teams and marketing. As a design management consultant she covers brand, websites, premises, products and services, across sectors from manufacturing to the creative industries. Sally is Lead Design Coach for Magnetic.
Register your interest now and we'll let you know the moment applications open.
