On 1st May 2019 the Home Office published updated lists of endorsing bodies for the Start up visa and for the Innovator visa categories.
Link to the list of endorsing bodies for the Start up visa is here.
Link to the list of endorsing bodies for the Innovator visa is here.
What are the changes comparing to the previously published lists of endorsing bodies
In addition to the names of the authorised endorsing organisations, the new lists now also attempt to include some basic information on what types of businesses may be accepted on their programmes, when the endorsing process will start and whether external applicants (those who are not part of the accelerator programmes) will be accepted. Unfortunately, the information is still far from comprehensive and for some of the listed endorsing bodies the list has no information at all. Nevertheless it is a good starting point and even these basic details are useful for applicants who are confused with the new requirement for endorsement.
There are also a few new endorsing bodies added to the lists. The newly added authorised endorsing bodies are listed below:
- Level39 – Level39 only endorses those involved in FinTech, cyber security, smart cities, retail tech and other globally ambitious tech business.
- MDR LAB – MDR LAB is an accelerator for tech start-ups in the legal space. We only endorse migrants accepted onto our 10-week May-July programme.
- Techstars – Techstars is the worldwide network that helps entrepreneurs succeed. Techstars runs two accelerator programs in London
- Ulster Bank Entrepreneur Accelerator
The note reflects legal position on 2nd May 2019 and is for general information purposes only and does not aim to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. We accept no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Carter Lemon Camerons immigration team. The specialist team at Carter Lemon Camerons Solicitors can assist you with all immigration and business-related matters. Our years of expertise in these areas mean that we can provide tailored solutions for you. For more details, please contact our immigration team at immigration@cartercamerons.com or +44 (0)20 7406 1000.
