LYVA Labs Launches search for 2027 Incubator Cohort

Funding and Investment News
02 Oct 2026

Applications are now open for the LYVA Labs Incubator, a six-month tailored support programme for early-stage startups based in Liverpool City Region, funded through the Liverpool City Region Innovation Zone.

The programme supports start-ups and spinouts operating in health and life sciences, clean tech, and deep tech sectors. Designed for startups at proof of concept or prototype stage (TRL 2-5), the Incubator combines investment, 1:1 commercial mentoring and access to industry expertise to help founders build investment-ready ventures.

Since its launch in 2024, the programme has supported 24 start-ups and spinouts with tailored investment and commercial support. This includes up to £25k investment on day one, one-to-one mentoring, grant writing support, business plan development and pitch practice, access to resources and expertise through our talent programme and mentor network, cohort learning sessions delivered by industry experts and an investor Demo Day.

Graduates of the programme leave with a clear route to market and fundraising strategy. Many have gone on to secure competitive grant funding and attract follow-on venture capital investment – with up to £250k in matched funding available from LYVA Labs at the discretion of our investment committee. Companies supported through the programme have so far received £895k investment from LYVA Labs, raised £3.1m in co-investment, and £3.3m in grant funding.

Every business joining the programme is matched with 2 dedicated commercial advisors whose expertise aligns with the company's sector and growth ambitions. Advisors provide hands-on support, constructive challenge and valuable introductions to help founders navigate the journey from innovation to commercial success.

Joe Cooke, Client Services Manager and Incubator Lead at LYVA Labs said: "What really sets this programme apart is the bespoke tailored 1:1 support we offer to founders; this is really where we see the magic happen. We see ourselves as an extra founder in your business for 6 months, that’s how much support is on offer. This is alongside our set workshops around commercial and investment guidance that gives all the knowledge a founder needs at that early stage of finding product-market fit and building their business ready for follow-on investment".

Supporting the next generation of founders

The LYVA Labs Incubator is designed to help innovative start-ups transform promising technologies into scalable businesses. Through a structured programme of workshops, mentoring and tailored support, participants gain the skills and connections needed to attract investment and build their business.

The programme includes educational workshops covering:

  • Market and competition

  • Value proposition and business model

  • Investor readiness

  • Finance and funding

  • Brand and marketing

  • Intellectual property

  • People and advisors

Rob Sims, the CEO of Sum Vivas said: "From day one, the energy around the cohort was positive, practical, and forward-looking. There was never any fluff; LYVA Labs focused on what would move the dial for our business, whether that was sharpening the proposition, challenging assumptions, or opening doors to the right people. Most importantly, I always felt LYVA Labs were in our corner. I'm proud to say we've been part of the LYVA Labs Incubator, and I'm looking forward to staying connected as we grow."

Building partnerships and networks to help you grow

Businesses will also gain access to mentors, potential non-executive directors, R&D partners and industry experts, helping them build the networks necessary for long-term success.

The programme culminates in an investor-focused Demo Day, providing participating businesses with the opportunity to showcase their innovation and secure further investment from LYVA Labs and its co-investor network.

What's Included?Who Can Apply?
  • Up to £25K day-one investment through an Advanced Subscription Agreement (ASA)
  • Tailored one-to-one commercial support from LYVA Labs
  • Educational workshops and peer-to-peer learning opportunities
  • Access to mentors, potential NEDs, R&D collaborators and industry partners
  • Support identifying and applying for innovation grant funding
  • Investment readiness support, including business plan and pitch development
  • Opportunity to secure follow-on investment at Demo Day
  • Access to talent and specialist skills through the LYVA Labs talent programme
  • Liverpool City Region-based start-ups and spinouts
  • Businesses developing innovative technologies in health and life sciences, clean tech or deep tech
  • Companies operating at Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 2-5, from proof of concept to prototype stage
  • Incorporated businesses with a business bank account
  • Founders actively seeking investment

To learn more and submit an application, visit:

https://lyvalabs.com/incubator

Founders can also register for an upcoming webinar to hear directly from the LYVA Labs team, learn more about the programme and ask questions about the application process: LYVA Labs Incubator Webinar Q&A · Luma

Programme Timeline: Key Dates

Dates for Successful Applicants

  • 4 to 17 November 2026 – Interviews with LYVA Labs for successful applicants.

  • 28 January 2027 – External Panel pitches and final shortlisting.

  • 12 March 2027 – Investments completed, with successful businesses receiving up to £25,000 investment and joining the programme.

  • March to September 2027 – Incubator Programme delivered through expert-led workshops, and bespoke one-to-one support.

  • September 2027 – Demo Day and Graduation, culminating in investor pitches and celebration of participant achievements.