Your questions answered
Is this only open to companies based in the West Midlands?
No, although we are based in the West Midlands, we are open to applicants from anywhere in the world, the only requirement being that companies must be UK registered.
What are the roles of the different consortium partners in the programme?
Deloitte provides free consultancy services as well as opening doors to relevant customers
Wayra provides acceleration services such as coaching and mentoring as well as access to their start-up offers and open doors with their investor network
O2 has provided the 5G infrastructure and will be able to open doors to relevant customers
West Midlands 5G provides regional expertise and connections
Where will the Events programme be based?
The Events accelerator will be based out of our Wolverhampton test bed, which is located at the University of Wolverhampton Science Park.
Where will the Transport programme be based?
The Transport accelerator will be based out of our Coventry test bed, which is located at the University of Warwick Science park.
What does the 5PRING accelerator programme offer?
5PRING gives selected start-ups acceleration and pre-acceleration services, such as co-working space, 5G connectivity services, mentoring, access to the 5PRING partners networks and knowhow, training in entrepreneurship and business skills. In addition to these it also provides access to a private 5G network and testbed alongside technical expertise.
What happens when the programme ends?
By connecting companies with the wider ecosystem during the programme, they are better positioned to secure contracts and investment and become self-sustaining or, where appropriate, to submit a strong application for other leading UK accelerators.
You will also become a part of both 5PRING and Wayra UK’s active alumni community, who return regularly to provide updates and take advantage of the networking opportunities available at many of Wayra’s events.
What facilities are made available during the accelerator programme?
The companies are given desk space in a high-specification dedicated accelerator facility in the West Midlands, with internet access, meeting rooms, event space and kitchen. In addition, they will have access to a private 5G testbed.
Are there any restrictions on the type of companies that can apply?
The accelerator is for companies who are registered as a UK company, and who have or are planning to have an active presence in the UK.
Are the companies required to licence or transfer any of their intellectual property to 5PRING?
No. By participating in the programme, the companies are not required to give away any rights to their IP whatsoever.
Will 5PRING take any equity in the companies?
5PRING does not take equity in the companies.
Companies supporting the start-ups are welcome to invest if they wish and the companies can agree to this, but this is not a requirement for entry to the programmes.
How are companies chosen?
Companies can access the programme through one of two routes: