Wayra UK unveils latest start-up accelerator cohort
Summary
$31.4m raised by businesses on 2014 programme with $61m investment secured since launch of Telef\xf3nica schemeWe are a team of writers, experimenters and researchers providing you with the best advice with zero bias or partiality.16 digital start-ups, including a TripAdvisor for kids and a smart thermostat, have been chosen to join Wayra UKs 2015 accelerator programme.The 2015 cohort, announced at a demoDay yesterday, will now receive $50,000 direct funding and $50,000 in acceleration services such as access to co-working space, mentoring and training in entrepreneurship in exchange for an equity stake.Launched in 2011 and backed by Telef\xf3nica, Wayra has already helped over 500 businesses across more than 20 digital industries. The estimated valuation of all the companies in its portfolio is said to be over 500m.The programmes 2014 UK cohort have already raised over $31.4m in investment over the last 12 months, with $61m investment raised by all UK businesses involved in the scheme to date.The 16 new Wayra UK members are:Gary Stewart, director of Wayra UK & Wayra UnLtd, commented: Across many verticals and sectors, corporates that want to avoid being disrupted are eagerlyseeking new innovation models.Telef\xf3nica was at the forefront of this movement, and its great to see that the results are now beginning to speak for themselves.