From AI to healthcare - 18 new start-ups selected for Mass Challenge UK

Royal Docks based MassChallenge UK, part of the global not-for-profit network renowned for supporting the growth of start-ups, has officially launched its 2024 cohort, signalling a significant expansion of the pioneering accelerator programme in the UK. Following a successful pilot last year and supported by the Royal Docks Team and the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, 18 early-stage start-ups invited to join this year’s programme.

The selected startups represent the top 10% of applications received from around the world. They were judged by over 35 independent experts from the MassChallenge community, who provided feedback on each initiative to improve their propositions. 

This year’s cohort features innovative solutions addressing major global challenges across sectors from AI to healthcare. They are working in areas such as blood diagnostics for cardiovascular health, AI-powered tools for manufacturing and biopharma, sustainable food production, and digital solutions for communication and healthcare diagnostics. Notable ventures include converting waste into proteins, enhancing soil health for sustainable agriculture, and developing smart devices for medical and environmental applications.

The selected start-ups will undergo an intensive four-month acceleration programme, benefitting from expert mentorship and substantial industry connections to enhance their potential and impact.

Founded in 2009 in the USA, MassChallenge has built a global network and it is one of the largest accelerator start-up programmes in the world by impact. The organisation is known for its unique equity-free model that helps burgeoning companies grow without sacrificing ownership. In 2023 Mass Challenge established its fifth global hub in London (in the Royal Docks!) with support from the Royal Docks Team and the University of East London’s Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, where it can establish a base to build and grow innovative practices, supporting business growth across the capital.

At the recent MassChallenge UK Kick-Off event, David Kinsella, Managing Director of MassChallenge UK, expressed enthusiasm about the new cohort:

“Congratulations to all the startups in the cohort. Year 2 for MassChallenge in the UK has been an exciting journey. We have established a home in the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, expanded our cohort, and welcomed new partners to the ecosystem. Now the fun starts; we cannot wait to start working with the cohort and connecting the teams with partners, experts, and mentors.”

The event also highlighted the collaboration with key partners including the Bühler Group, and continued partnership with MassChallenge Switzerland, which has been instrumental in advancing the startup scene across Europe since its inception in 2016. These partnerships support the UK programme, providing startups with invaluable access to a broader network of advisory services, mentoring, and potential investors.

MassChallenge UK’s approach is set against the backdrop of the Royal Docks’ ongoing transformation into a hub for sustainable growth and innovation. The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS) plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem, aiming to test and realize the Royal Docks' economic ambitions through business incubation and acceleration. This strategic location offers startups a unique opportunity to tap into London’s vibrant entrepreneurial scene and connect with industries dedicated to urban tech and sustainability.

Learn more about the 2024 cohort here

To stay informed about future events, receive updates, connect with start-ups or to support their growing community - sign up to the UK programme newsletter here, join their LinkedIn group or email the MassChallenge UK team on uk@masschallenge.org