Springboard launches new mobile accelerator

Springboard is going mobile with Europe’s first mobile-focused accelerator programme.

Springboard is a well-known and highly regarded accelerator programme that has operated in London and Cambridge. Now it is branching out into mobile, offering ten founders in any area of mobile services or technology money and mentorship. The cash comes from ten angel investors, most of whom are themselves successful entrepreneurs.

The angels include Russell Buckley, who sold Admob for $750 million, Harry Dewhirst, who sold Amobee for $321 million and Ben Barakas, co-founder of Admeld, which was sold for $400 million. Support will come from over a hundred carefully selected mobile, technical, financial and business mentors.

Springboard Mobile will be Europe’s first mobile-only accelerator and intends to keep things “founder-friendly”, dishing out $150,000 worth of services and seed capital for 6 per cent equity. There is also a services-only option, which comes at a cost of 3 per cent founder equity.

Springboard Mobile investor Russell Buckley told The Kernel: “This will be the third Springboard programme I’ve been involved in and I’m a firm believer in the mentor-led approach to accelerating success for entrepreneurs. As the world is going mobile, it’s very exciting to be pioneering an accelerator specialising in this exponentially growing technology alongside the Springboard team and the high profile mentors and supporters involved.

“Anything that gives you an edge is worth considering, but Springboard is now a proven model and I’d recommend any entrepreneur gives it serious consideration.”

Since the completion of Springboard 2011, six of the ten teams have raised an average of £300k investment capital with more to follow. Springboard London is currently in session, with an investor day planned for 5 July in London.