Nucleate Catalyse Entrepreneurship Programme April (apply by mid March)

Catalyse is a free, virtual biotechnology entrepreneurship programme run by Nucleate UK, a student-led innovation community with a strong track record of supporting high-impact venture creation through its flagship Activator programme.Catalyse is designed as an early-stage counterpart to Activator. It provides scientists and engineers at UK institutions across all career stages, with the foundational knowledge needed to take their first steps toward biotech entrepreneurship.

Applicants can choose between two tracks, depending on their stage in the entrepreneurial journey:

Explore Track

For researchers who are curious about entrepreneurship but not yet ready to build a company. The Explore track focuses on understanding how scientific research translates from the lab into real-world impact.

Explore course overview:

• 6 weekly core sessions: Virtual masterclasses delivered by experienced biotech entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts, covering the fundamentals of company formation and commercialisation.

• In-person networking session: An opportunity to connect with fellow participants and the wider Nucleate community.

Build Track

For researchers who are ready to found a company or actively explore the commercial potential of a specific idea. The Build track is hands-on and structured around pressure-testing your idea through venture development and pitching.

You may apply to the Build track in one of three ways:

• Inventor (with a team): You have an idea and an established team. Team members should apply together and indicate their affiliation with one another.

• Inventor (without a team): You have an idea but no team yet. We will match you with other Build participants based on interest and technical fit.

• Contributor: You do not have an idea or team but want a structured, build-focused experience. You will be assigned to a team based on availability and expertise.

Build Track Overview:

• 6 weekly core sessions: Virtual masterclasses from biotech founders, investors, and operators.

• Applied workshops: Small-group sessions focused on translating course content into a pitch deck and venture framework.

• In-person networking session/Pitching: Meet fellow participants and members of the ecosystem and have an opportunity to pitch your idea.

Note: Due to programme capacity constraints we will not be able to accommodate all Build applicants. If your Build application is unsuccessful you will be automatically enrolled in Explore.

To apply, please complete this short application form.

If you have any questions please email our team at uk@nucleate.org. 

The Nucleate UK Team