Ricoh launches ‘Big Ignite’ initiative for UK tech start-ups

This new initiative will connect entrepreneurs with mentors from across Ricoh's business who will provide help and advice about everything from running a scalable company, to product marketing and accountancy. All start-ups on the programme will receive one lead mentor for the whole year, along with 'flash mentors' who will support them in a particular business area over 1-3 separate sessions.

Rick Hewitt, Finance Director, Ricoh UK said, "We are proud to invest in a project that will inspire and support some of the brightest business talent that Northampton, and indeed the UK, has to offer. The start- up scene is one that presents many exciting opportunities and challenges and Ricoh wants to continue to help support these new organisations on the start of their business journey."

The new business accelerator programme is targeted at the Northampton area specifically where there is the highest per capita start-up rate in the UK, second only to London. Ricoh BIG Ignite already has 10 registered companies including three of which were founded as part of Ricoh's corporate partner, The Prince's Trust's, Enterprise programme.

The Ricoh BIG Ignite programme is being delivered in partnership with award-winning accelerator, 50th Generation.