Hackstarter
If you’re looking to make your idea a reality, experiment and innovate, then look no further! The Hackstarter programme enables you to develop new skills and put your theories to the test.
Programme overview
What is Hackstarter?
The award-winning Hackstarter programme has been designed to turn your inspiring, inventive and entrepreneurial ideas into a reality, providing early stage ideas with the necessary cash boost (grant funding) to get off the ground.
You can apply individually or in teams of up to four people. If your project gets selected you will receive £500 Hack Credit to develop a product prototype at the Hackspace.
Not only do you get the credit to spend at Hackspace, you’ll also have access to the Advanced Hackspace – three purpose designed prototyping and fabrication spaces all under one roof; Electronics and Digital Manufacturing Workshop, Biochemistry Lab and Mechanical Workshop; as well as dedicated technical support and guidance from our team of Hack Fellows and Hackspace experts.
Hackstarter Grand Final
At the end of the programme, selected teams will present their developments at a mini symposium with a judging panel picking the winners and runners up. Those chosen will receive:
Winning Team
- Up to £2,500 additional Hack Credits to further develop the winning project
- Hackstarter Trophy
Runner-up Team
- Additional Hack Credits to further develop their project
All Finalists
- All Finalist teams will receive Certificates.
To learn more about this year’s cohort of creators and discover their innovations, please visit the Hackstarter 2025 Grand Final event page.
Entry requirements
- You can apply as an individual, or in a team of up to four people.
- All members of your team must be students or staff of Imperial College London.
- External applications will not be accepted.
You can find more information on our entry requirements in our programme terms and conditions.
Key dates
Monday 13th January
Deadline for all Hackstarter applications is 9am on Monday 13th January 2024.
Friday 17th January
Hackstarter 2025 cohort announced.
Friday 7th February
Mid programme pizza social!
Thursday 13th March
End of programme Grand Final at which this year’s winner/s will be announced.
Meet our 2025 cohort who will be presenting and learn more about their innovations.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this programme you’ll have learned how to:
Develop an idea from first concept to a prototype
Develop new hardware skills and approaches to design (physical) prototypes
Design prototyping experiments to help validate, refine or discredit an idea quickly
Understand what the next steps are in your development journey
Our credentials
We’re award winning!
Hackstarter’s track-record in nurturing great ideas into real-world impact has achieved national recognition by winning a prestigious Knowledge Exchange award in the “Highly Commended” category.
Testimonials
Hackstarter has provided a launchpad for several successful startups. Read more about previous teams who have benefitted from the programme to make their ideas a reality!
FAQs
Can I submit several projects?
Yes, you can submit several ideas. However, only one idea will be taken forward to the full programme if you are selected.
Do you take any equity in my team/company?
Can I speak to someone about my idea?
Yes, if you have any questions please get in touch with the HackTeam [email protected] or book a Hack Surgery to discuss your idea for the Hackstarter programme.
What are the terms and conditions?
You can find the programme terms and conditions here.