A new incubator programme supporting entrepreneurs and businesses exploring artificial intelligence and emerging technology has launched at Theobalds Enterprise Centre in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire.
Emerging TEC is delivered by Oxford Innovation Space in partnership with Broxbourne Borough Council, and made possible through funding from Google. The programme will support up to 20 founders, entrepreneurs and businesses through a fully-funded, structured six-month incubation experience, with applications now open. The deadline for applying is on Friday 21st August.
Located just off junction 25 of the M25, and adjacent to one of Google’s largest UK data centres, Theobalds Enterprise Centre (TEC) is positioned to be the hub for AI-driven growth in the region, connecting entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and educators under one roof.
“You don’t have to be a software engineer or a venture-backed startup to benefit from AI. If you’ve got curiosity, ambition and a problem worth solving, this incubator is designed to help turn ideas into real opportunities, creating new businesses, better jobs and lasting economic impact across Broxbourne.” said Julie Creffield, Innovation Director at TEC.
Councillor Corina Gander, Leader of Broxbourne Council, said:
“We are proud to partner with Emerging TEC and are looking forward to seeing this initiative attract investors, entrepreneurs, educators, and researchers to our Borough over the coming years.
This new AI and emerging technology incubator has the potential to make Broxbourne a hub for some of Britain’s fastest growing industries and creating real opportunities for local businesses and residents.”
About the Programme
Successful applicants will receive:
- A free, structured six-month incubation programme (funded by Google).
- Workshops, masterclasses and expert mentoring
- Peer learning, business support and networking opportunities
- Support to access appropriate funding and/or finance to scale
- Pitch preparation and access to a growing innovation community
The programme is open to early-stage founders, entrepreneurs, SMEs exploring AI, students, graduates, researchers, creatives and technologists. No technical background is required as organisers say curiosity, ambition and commitment matter most.
Applications are open now, with the deadline set for Friday 21 August. Interviews will take place in late August, with successful applicants starting the programme in mid-September. The pilot cohort runs September to January, culminating in a showcase event in January 2027.
Applications can be submitted at: Apply here
If you have further questions do get in touch with Innovation Director Julie Creffield at jcreffield@oxin.co.uk
