Ignite is an award-winning incubator

Ignite is an award-winning incubator for tech-based start-ups, giving access to practical support, research and resources from the University of Warwick as well as high-quality space options for ambitious start-ups.

Ignite is co-located with Warwick Science Park’s Minerva Business Angels Investor Network, which invests in early-stage tech-based propositions. Joining Ignite Business Incubation means much more than receiving vital support and having a top location for your business.

Why join Ignite?

Ranked as one of Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs in 2025 by a Financial Times special report.

A prestigious address for your business

A prestigious address for your business

Access to attractive Business Lounges*

Access to attractive Business Lounges*

Access to high-quality start-up offices*

Access to high-quality start-up offices*

Networking meetings

Networking meetings

Knowledge workshops

Knowledge workshops

Skills exchange platform

Skills exchange platform

Matchmaking and introductions

Matchmaking and introductions

*(on application)

Tailored support to fuel success

From investment readiness to accessing debt, equity and grant funding to accessing routes to market and other skills and knowledge input, the support given is extensive and transformational. One-to-one support is typically delivered in a mentoring capacity and augmented by access to knowledge workshops and other networking events. 

The Ignite Business Incubator offers a flexible package of guidance and hands-on assistance to allow start-up and early-stage companies to tap into the resources of the University of Warwick Science Park and its wealth of know-how. Our incubator programmes are specifically designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs in refining their business models and driving new product development.

Our experts

Our experts work closely with you and your team to proactively identify and access resources to excel your business. Acting as both a strategic sounding board and a guide, they will help you refine and execute a robust business plan designed for sustainable growth and success.

What is Ignite’s track record?

Ventures supported each year

100+

Company survival rate after 5 years

90%

Alumni businesses/ventures

700+

Physical incubation

Our incubation offices are designed to accommodate one to four people and come with a 12-month license. Fully furnished and ready for immediate occupancy, each Ignite office provides a hassle-free workspace solution.

With up to six incubator offices available at each site, we offer a straightforward 12-month license featuring an escalating fee structure. This setup gives startups the flexibility and breathing space they need to grow and thrive in their early stages.

The Ignite incubator is situated in three innovation centres in Coventry and Warwickshire: 

The Venture Centre, Coventry, CV4 7EZ

Business Innovation Centre, Binley, CV3 2TX

Warwick Innovation Centre, Warwick, CV34 6UW

Ignite Business Incubation FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria for Ignite?

To access Ignite Business Incubation, you’ll need to be a start-up business or a knowledge-based or innovation-led business with high growth potential and the intention or potential to access the knowledge base.

How does Ignite Business Support differ from other business incubation programmes?

Ignite offers bespoke support for near-to-market propositions. Ignite acknowledges that Rome (your company name here) wasn’t built in a day and can provide long-term intensive support as and when companies require it.

Are there specific sectors or industries that the Ignite programme focuses on?

The Ignite programme has supported businesses from a wide range of tech-based sectors and industries.

How long does the Ignite Incubation programme last?

At the University of Warwick Science Park, our Ignite Business Incubation programme lasts for 12 months.

Is there a cost to join the Ignite programme?

The support given by the Ignite programme is free but fees apply for Ignite incubation offices as well as for Ignite Business Lounge membership.

How can I apply for Ignite Business Incubation?

To apply for Ignite Business Incubation, please contact our team on +44 (0)24 7632 3000 or email [email protected].

What other benefits are there when joining the Ignite incubator?

After joining Ignite you will be eligible to join the Ignite Alumni Network. The Ignite Alumni Network is delivered by the University of Warwick Science Park and brings together like minded companies and ventures that were supported by the Science Park’s Ignite incubator.

 

The network meets three times a year in different locations and provides a wealth of networking and support services. Ignite members will also be able to join various knowledge workshops and other networking events organised by the University of Warwick Science Park and the wider University of Warwick.

A community of like-minded entrepreneurs

Join a successful network of businesses incubated and supported within the Science Park for the past 15+ years.