Pre-X
Eight weeks from idea to validated concept, with founders who have done it. Part time, free, and run with The AMP in Derry.
There is no separate application.
Pre-X places go to founders we get to know during the Founder Labs Cohort 5 application cycle. The way in is to get on our radar now.
- 1
Get on our radar
Apply for Founder Labs Cohort 5 before Friday 20 November 2026, book office hours, or come to an event.
- 2
We get to know you
Through your application, office hours and events, we see what you are building and how you work.
- 3
You are invited
Earlier-stage founders who engage, and who are not yet right for the six-month Accelerator, are invited to Pre-X in Q1 2027.
From Pre-X to funded
“The Pre-Accelerator played a pivotal role in supporting and guiding us as we left full-time employment, embarked on our first ever fundraise, and transitioned from concept into development. With strong mentorship and clear guidance, we completed a successful nine-week raise, closed a £700k pre-seed investment round, and now work full-time in Biomarx, just months away from our MVP.”
“The Pre-Accelerator sharpened our message, validated our market, and gave us the confidence to raise. It was the momentum we needed that helped us secure a £590k investment to fuel growth.”
Pre-X or the Accelerator?
Two programmes for two stages. Applying to Cohort 5 puts you in the running for both.
| Pre-X | Accelerator | |
|---|---|---|
| Stage | Idea to validated concept | Product built or close, first customers in sight |
| Length | 8 weeks | 6 months: 3 intensive, 3 of 1:1 support |
| Time | Part time, fits around a job | At least one founder full time |
| Where | The AMP, Derry | Ormeau Labs, Belfast |
| Starts | Q1 2027 | 11 January 2027 |
| Cost | Free | Free, plus a £25k Invest NI grant |
Validate it before you build it
Founder-led sessions on the things that decide whether an idea becomes a company, a mentor beside you each week, and introductions to the people you need.
- 01
Business Fundamentals & Strategic Foundation
Core business model validation and structural essentials.
- 02
Customer Discovery & Market Validation
Deep-dive methodology for understanding your market and customer needs.
- 03
Product Development & Value Proposition Design
Building products that solve real problems.
- 04
AI Integration for Early-Stage Businesses
Practical AI tools and applications for startup efficiency and beyond.
- 05
Pitch Development & Communication Mastery
A full day dedicated to crafting compelling narratives and presentation skills.
- 06
Go-to-Market Strategy & Customer Acquisition
Building scalable pathways to market.
- 07
Investment Readiness & Financial Preparation
Positioning for funding and growth capital.
Founders and investors in your corner
Local Authorities, Hospitality, Care Companies, Health and Social Care Trusts, Wealth Management
Leading UX designers and dev teams
Angel Investors, Techstart, Innovate UK, Clarendon Fund
Manufacturers, legal and finance partners, media and marketing agencies
The little black book: the introductions Pre-X founders have had so far.
“The pitch session was incredibly helpful... I came away with some really valuable takeaways on my stance, pitch, and how to phrase it effectively.”
“I am refining my funding strategy... pressure-testing my cashflow thinking and working on how best to position the business for growth capital.”
Companies we have backed
Questions
How do I apply?
There is no separate Pre-X application. Apply for Founder Labs Cohort 5, book office hours or come to an event, and we will invite founders to Pre-X from the people we get to know.
What does it cost?
Nothing. Pre-X is free, funded by Invest Northern Ireland and delivered with The AMP.
Can I do it alongside a job?
Yes. Pre-X is part time and designed to fit around work.
Where and when?
At The AMP in Derry, starting in Q1 2027. Exact dates go to invited founders.
Is there a grant?
Not at the moment. There are no grants or credits attached to Pre-X.
What happens after?
Many Pre-X founders go on to apply to the six-month Founder Labs Accelerator, and keep the mentors and introductions they made.
Want a place on Pre-X?
Get on our radar during the Cohort 5 cycle. Applications close Friday 20 November 2026.