MassChallenge is a startup accelerator network that runs a four-month early-stage programme in the United Kingdom. The 2026 edition was its fourth UK cohort and welcomed 80 early-stage startups.
Teams work from office space in the Royal Docks in East London, join online programming through the four months, and attend in-person events in London and Lausanne. MassChallenge takes no equity in return.
The UK cohort concentrates on two areas — AI, autonomy and cybersecurity, and foodtech and agritech — while still accepting startups from other sectors that create positive impact. It runs alongside the MassChallenge Switzerland cohort and competes for the same prize pool, with an extra award reserved for the strongest UK team.
Benefits & funding
- The chance to compete for up to CHF 1 million in non-dilutive cash prizes.
- A dedicated prize of GBP 20,000 for the best startup in the UK programme.
- Mentoring from more than 400 experts, plus tailored programming, with no equity taken in return.
- Access to more than 20 global corporate partners representing over GBP 300 billion in combined revenue, including BAE Systems, Whitworth Bros., Tate & Lyle, Marriott Harrison, Bühler, Givaudan, dsm-firmenich, Louis Dreyfus Company and SIG.
- Office space in the Royal Docks in London for the whole programme, with university partners University of East London and Queen Mary University.
- MassChallenge reports that 65% of finalists raise funds during or immediately after the programme.
Eligibility
- Early-stage startups that have raised less than GBP 3 million and have less than GBP 3 million in sales.
- Incorporation is not required at the time of applying.
- The startup must have a strategic connection with the United Kingdom.
- Founders must be willing to travel for up to 10 days across the four months, including events held in Switzerland.
- Selection looks for an impactful, viable and scalable product, demonstrated traction among users, a financially sustainable model and market-competitive pricing.
- No nationality, residency, age, degree or gender requirement is stated.
Can you apply?
Open to all applicants
No nationality, residency, education, or experience limits are listed.
Appears to have an age limit “up to 10”
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Application process
- 1Check the two financial thresholds and the UK connection requirement before starting.
- 2Join one of the online information webinars run before the deadline — the 2026 round held them on 11 and 25 February.
- 3Submit the online application form linked from the UK programme page before the closing date.
- 4Go through selection, which is run entirely online; no travel is required before acceptance.
- 5Accepted startups join the launch event in June, take part in London and Lausanne events plus online sessions, and compete for prizes at the October awards ceremony.
Program timeline
Information webinar 1, online, held jointly with the Switzerland cohort.
11 February 2026
Information webinar 2, online.
25 February 2026
15 April 2026
Extended application deadline for the 2026 cohort.
Programme launch at the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, London.
23 June 2026
Halftime showcase, Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, London.
10 September 2026
UK awards ceremony at London City Hall.
21 October 2026
Programme ends.
29 October 2026