Join the Hatchery startup incubator programme

Are you ready to transform your startup into a thriving business? The Hatchery is UCL’s equity free incubator programme which provides the co-working space, advice and connections you need to succeed.

About the Hatchery programme

The Hatchery is a 2-year incubator programme for UCL students and graduates, located at BaseKX, UCL’s dedicated entrepreneurship hub in King’s Cross.

As part of the Hatchery, you’ll have access to tailored support to help you accelerate your startup’s growth. Whether you're at the minimum viable product (MVP) stage or already launched, we’re committed to accelerating your progress.

We provide resources, expertise, connections, and a rich entrepreneurial community, to help you develop your product/service, expand your user base, secure crucial funding, and navigate the entrepreneurial journey with confidence.

Programme structure

The Hatchery hosts two cohorts each year, starting in spring and autumn.

For the first 5 weeks of the programme (4 November to 5 December), you’ll attend an intensive series of in-person workshops and induction sessions. These will set you up with essential entrepreneurial skills and help you connect with your incubator cohort. Session will be held over 3 days each week, from 10am to 4pm.

Over the following 24 months, you’ll receive continuous support including:

• regular masterclasses: access to specialised workshops and training events to hone your business skills
• professional advice and services: one-on-one meetings with experienced advisors, mentors, legal experts and accountants, tailored to your startup’s needs
• networking: opportunities to connect with subject matter experts, founders, investors and mentors through various events
• facilities: full access to BaseKX facilities, including meeting rooms and event spaces, and up to four hot desks for your team
• dedicated mentorship: personalised guidance from a dedicated mentor invested in your success
• alumni network: continue receiving support and resources from our growing network of successful alumni even after the programme ends

Application process

You can apply within 2 years of graduating from UCL. Your company must be registered as a legal entity with Companies House before you apply.

There are 3 steps to the application process:

Step 1: Meet with an advisor

Before applying, you must meet with an advisor to check that your business is eligible and at the right stage to benefit from the programme.

Meetings are 30-minutes and held online on Wednesday afternoons. Request a meeting via our online portal at least 2 weeks before the application deadline.

Step 2: Complete the online application form

You must submit your completed form by 9 September 2024. 

In the form you’ll need to provide:

• basic details about your business
• business status and progress
• optional demographic data

Step 3: Attend an interview

If you're shortlisted, you’ll be invited to showcase your vision and passion to our panel of experts in a 15-minute interview. You'll need to deliver a dynamic 3-minute presentation which should include 3 slides and cover:

1. Problem - What problem are you solving?
2. Solution - How does your product/service address this problem?
3. Team - Who are you? Why are you the right person/people to solve this problem?