Oxygen Accelerator

Oxygen Accelerator was a pioneering technology accelerator based in Birmingham, United Kingdom, launched in 2011. It quickly established itself as a significant player in the burgeoning UK startup ecosystem, particularly outside of London. The accelerator aimed to identify and nurture early-stage tech companies with ambitious, scalable ideas, providing them with initial capital, mentorship, and a structured program to accelerate their growth. Its focus was on "world-changing, continent-shifting ideas," reflecting a commitment to high-impact innovation.

The core of Oxygen Accelerator's model involved a 13-week intensive program designed to transform nascent concepts into viable businesses. During this period, participating startups received hands-on guidance from experienced mentors, access to a network of industry experts, and crucial seed funding. Typically, Oxygen Accelerator invested a fixed sum of £18,000 (approximately $27,000 USD, based on exchange rates prevalent during its operational period) in exchange for an 8% equity stake in each selected company. This standardized investment approach allowed it to support multiple cohorts of startups efficiently.

Over its operational period, Oxygen Accelerator played a vital role in fostering regional tech talent and attracting investment to Birmingham. It successfully graduated several cohorts of promising startups, many of which went on to secure further funding or achieve successful exits. In a significant development for the UK accelerator landscape, Oxygen Accelerator was eventually integrated into Wayra UK, Telefónica's global accelerator program, around 2013-2014. This integration marked the end of Oxygen Accelerator as an independent entity but extended its legacy by contributing to Wayra's broader mission of supporting digital innovation.