Addleshaw Goddard has unveiled the fifth cohort of UK tech companies to join its AG Elevate programme, a fast-track legal mentoring scheme for early-stage businesses.

The 10-month programme gives the companies access to a dedicated legal mentor and a network of other professionals within the technology industry and wider tech ecosystem. Eleven companies were chosen for the programme, with Addleshaw receiving more than three times the number of applicants than in previous years. While the programme has previously focused on the fintech sector, this year the cohort was opened up to all high-growth tech companies, with an emphasis on businesses that focus on sustainability. 

Elvan Hussein, a tech-focused corporate finance partner at Addleshaw, said: The pandemic has accelerated digital innovation and the integration of technology in all aspects of our lives. We must recognise the vast array of opportunities and expertise tech companies across the UK bring towards the growth and rebuilding of our economy.”

The 11 companies chosen for the programme include London-based fintechs Rosecut Technologies, Lumio Technologies and Yayzy, as well as health-tech company Flomark. Regional companies include Manchester-based fintech Voly and mental health-tech start-up ASSIF, and Yorkshire-based property compliance tech firm Crysp. 

The cohort is completed by Scottish firms BlackArrow Financial Solutions and Trojan Energy, and Leeds and London-based WhereIsMyTransport and JUST: Access.

Lawyers from across Addleshaw’s six UK offices will be involved in mentoring the businesses.

Hussein added: “Alongside colleagues across the UK and beyond, we’ll use our expertise in the sector to work closely with the chosen firms to help them navigate their way through the legal challenges frequently faced by fast-growing earlier-stage firms in a bid to propel them into the next chapter.”

To date, the AG Elevate programme has helped more than 30 tech entrepreneurs accelerate and grow their businesses, with many going on to operate internationally. Past cohorts have included fintechs such as Nivo, Comply Advantage and Autopaid.

Other UK-based legal practices operating tech incubator programmes include Slaughter and May, Hogan Lovells and Deloitte Legal.