The University of Lincoln’s Enterprise & Innovation team, in partnership with Lincoln City Football Club has launched an exciting new start-up business “Kick-Off Accelerator” programme, designed to support and scale early-stage ventures across Greater Lincolnshire.
Set to begin in April 2026, the accelerator will provide 11 selected entrepreneurs with access to expert mentoring and tailored workshops designed to facilitate business growth. The programme will be hosted at Lincoln City FC’s LNER Stadium, and will leverage the unique strengths of both partners, combining the University of Lincoln’s academic excellence and innovation expertise with the community reach and commercial insight of Lincoln City FC through their Innovation Lab.
Applications will open in January 2026, with shortlisting and final selection taking place in February and March 2026. The programme is open to ambitious founders and start-ups looking to take their business to the next level, with a particular focus on innovation, regional impact, and scalability.
“This partnership represents a bold step forward in our commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and driving regional growth,” said Reece Leggett, business incubation and growth manager at the University of Lincoln. “By joining forces with the Lincoln City FC Innovation Lab, we’re creating a unique platform that brings together business, sport, and community to support the next generation of innovators.”
Jason Futers, chief growth and innovation officer at Lincoln City FC, added: “We’re excited to collaborate with the University of Lincoln on this initiative. Supporting local enterprise aligns with our values and vision for a thriving Lincolnshire. We look forward to welcoming and championing the start-ups that will shape our future.”
Further details, including application criteria and programme structure, will be released in January 2026.