Hackstarter
If you are looking to make your idea a reality, experiment and innovate, then look no further! Develop new skills and put your theories to the test and apply for the Hackstarter programme!
Programme Overview
What is Hackstarter?
The 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. 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 cash, 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.
At the end of the programme the teams will present their developments at a mini symposium with one lucky team walking away with £2000 Hack Credits for further development as well as the prestigious Hackstarter winners trophy and certificate.
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.
- You must not have previously received any seed or grant funding for the idea you are entering.
- External applications will not be accepted.
You can find more information on our entry requirements in our programme terms and conditions.
Key dates
25th January
Deadline for all Hackstarter applications. Application deadline is midnight on Wednesday 25th January 2023.
30th January
2022-23 Hackstarter Cohort announced.
Postponed: 16th March
Mid programme pizza social! –New Date to Follow–
31st March
End of programme symposium 31st March after which winner/s will be announced
Learning outcomes
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
Past Projects
Take a look at the brilliant initiatives from our ’21-’22 cohort!
Aquinos
A more resourceful way for developing countries to transport water Find out more
Ultima Thule Speculum
Bringing Speculum design into the 21st century Find out more
PlaSense
A new device design to continuously monitor microplastic levels in water sources Find out more
Universal Automated Emergency Call Device
Making automatic emergency calling available to all modes of transport Find out more
B_R
An open-sourced approach to bring better brewing to small-scale beer producers Find out more
Sensact
Innovating blood sugar monitoring using a microneedle-based glucose sensor Find out more
Volumetric Screen
A true 3D display for more immersive cinematic and gaming experiences Find out more
Exactotrace
Better contact tracing Find out more
Mycelium Leather Bioreactor
A novel approach to non-animal leather manufacture Find out more
Heady
An app that saves doctors valuable time in identifying and treating non-critical ... Find out more
Robotic Quadruped Platform
A more cost-effective way to design human compatible robots Find out more
NXT LVL
A better way to track fitness and help users stay motivated Find out more
Testimonials
Don’t just take our word for it
Need more inspiration? Read more about previous teams who have benefited from support and a cash boost 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?
When can I expect a reply regarding my application?
We aim to let all our all applicants know if they’ve been accepted onto the programme by 12pm on 30th January.
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.
How to apply
Please click HERE to enter using your Imperial College login.
