Apply for the Roundhouse Creative Business Accelerator

Is your business idea ready to be elevated? Are you aged 18-30? Have you recently launched a unique creative business, either on your own or as a small team, and you need that extra push to transform it into a sustainable career and business?

This programme is for you.

About the programme

The Roundhouse Creative Business Accelerator programme is Roundhouse’s flagship 5-month course specifically designed for businesses in the creative industries. Through weekly workshops, masterclasses, mentoring, pitch practice and peer-to-peer learning, we will get you ready to take yourself and your creative business to places you’ve been dreaming about.

As part of your place on the Accelerator, you will get a free Roundhouse Works membership, offering access to a fully equipped workspace and community for 18-30-year-old freelancers and early-stage entrepreneurs. You will also receive free tickets to our ‘Self Made Live’ events, where you can listen to inspiring talks by business and creative leaders and meet more like-minded creatives.

How to apply

Apply by Monday 17 November, 9am using our online form

• Assessment Bootcamp: w/c 24 November

• Project Dates: Tuesdays between 13 January and 5 May 2026 (inclusive)

• Price: Free to apply, £25 for the programme. Pay only if selected.

You should apply if:

You’re in the early stages of building a creative business, with a distinct brand and some sales or customer traction, but need help refining your business plan, strengthening your brand identity, and finding pathways for growth. You can commit two days a week for 12 weeks and are seeking clarity, direction, and clear five-year goals. Social impact businesses are especially encouraged to apply.

What is an example of who can apply?

You’re a solo founder or small team making money from your creative work and want to scale it into a full business. Whether it’s a blog, events, or handmade products, your project is gaining traction, and you need guidance and expert support to turn it into a sustainable business.

Who is this not for? 

This opportunity is not for those at the idea stage, established businesses with major investment or partnerships, or freelancers working for clients. It’s designed for solo entrepreneurs building a business they can run independently, rather than trading time for others.

By the end of the programme, you will have:

Developed a solid business plan and polished pitch deck, gained confidence in engaging investors and partners, built practical and transferable skills through expert mentoring, benefited from peer learning and collaboration, and created new opportunities to reach markets and generate leads.

What is included in the Roundhouse Creative Business Accelerator?

• A dedicated day every Tuesday for pitch training and curated workshops hosted by industry experts
• Free Roundhouse Works Membership
• Free tickets to the Roundhouse Self Made Masterclass Series
• 1:1 surgeries with business professionals
• 1:1 support from the Roundhouse team
• A Pitch Evening at the end of the programme

How to join

Apply by Monday 17 November, 10am by clicking the Apply Now button above

I’M NOT SURE I CAN AFFORD TO TAKE PART…

If you need help to pay for things like project fees, transport or childcare, we can help. Find out how you can get support. If you are using a bursary to pay for the project, please ensure you arrange this with the Advice Base with plenty of time before the start of the project.

I HAVE ADDITIONAL NEEDS. WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?

We are committed to supporting D/deaf, disabled and neurodiverse young people, those with medical conditions, access requirements or any lived experience that may require adaptation, support or sensitivity. If there is anything you would like to let us (our youth workers, tutors or staff) know that will support your enjoyment and access, you can do so by emailing us at advicebase@roundhouse.org.uk, and we will contact you to discuss further how to best support your engagement.