Our partners
Built with support. Backed by believers.
Akcela is privately owned and independently run. But we don't do this alone. Our partners provide the expertise, networks, and resources that make our incubation programme stronger.
Akcela is privately owned and independently run. But we don't do this alone. Our partners provide the expertise, networks, and resources that make our incubation programme stronger.
Our partners
Ashtons Legal has been with Akcela since day one. As our founding legal partner, they provide guidance on company formation, shareholder agreements, intellectual property, and the legal foundations that every startup needs to get right from the start. Their team understands the unique challenges of early-stage companies and provides practical, jargon-free advice.
Connected Innovation delivers enterprise and innovation support across Norfolk and Suffolk. Akcela is the Norfolk lead delivery partner for the Future Tech Programme, a funded initiative supporting underserved early-stage tech founders. Together, we’ve supported 79 businesses and helped cohort members raise over £2.2 million in investment.
Luminous PR supports Akcela and our portfolio companies with communications, media relations, and brand storytelling. Getting the message right matters, especially when you’re raising money, launching a product, or trying to stand out in a crowded market.
Akcela Ventures is a member of the UK Business Angels Association, connecting our portfolio companies with the UK’s angel investment community. UKBAA membership gives our founders access to a national network of investors, events, and resources that complement our regional connections through Anglia Capital Group.
The wider ecosystem
Beyond our formal partners, Akcela is deeply embedded in the Norfolk and Suffolk startup ecosystem. We work closely with:
1,800+ member tech community. We attend, sponsor, and champion their events.
Regional body spotlighting Norfolk & Suffolk’s digital businesses.
The region’s most active angel investment network. A key source of investment for our portfolio companies.
Home to world-class research institutes generating academic spin-outs.
Talent pipelines and entrepreneurship programmes.
Co-funders of the Future Tech Programme alongside Connected Innovation and Norfolk/Suffolk County Councils.
Local Enterprise Partnership championing the region’s economic strengths.
If your organisation wants to support Norwich's startup ecosystem, whether through funding, expertise, or connections, we'd love to have a conversation.