If you are an entrepreneur or founder of an innovative technology business based overseas you may be eligible for UK government support to help you move your business to the UK.
How the programme works
The Global Entrepreneur Programme (GEP) offers mentoring and business support to non-UK based founders to help them set up and scale their business from a UK global headquarters.
Support is free and includes:
- mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs
- help to develop business plans
- assistance with relocating to the UK
- providing introductions to key networks including investors
- guidance on how to grow internationally
- continued help from DIT once located in the UK, especially around exporting
GEP participants are mentored by experienced entrepreneurs known as ‘dealmakers’, who are experienced in setting up, building, scaling and selling technology companies.
How to qualify for GEP support
You must be:
- an overseas-based entrepreneur and founder of an innovative technology business
- willing to relocate and establish the company’s global headquarters in the UK
You must have:
- a potentially ground-breaking product or service based on unique technology
- a business plan outlining how the business can expand from a headquarters in the UK
- a customer-validated product either already in the market or ready to launch
- a clear commercial proposition that addresses a large global opportunity
Who the programme has helped
Examples of companies the GEP has supported relocate to the UK include:
- Online investment management company Nutmeg from the United States
- Space system applications company Orbital Micro Systems from the United States
- Seat upgrade travel software/app company Seatfrog from Australia
Next steps
Email global.entrepreneurs@trade.gov.uk for more information about the Global Entrepreneur Programme.
For companies who are not suitable for GEP support, contact DIT’s Investment Services Team to find out how they can support your expansion into the UK.