UEL launches TerraDock

2025 programme of activities

We are also proud to announce our 2025 activities at the launch event which include:

Nature Positive Finance – in partnership with Middlesex University
January - May 2025

Empowering nature-focused startups to raise funding and grow is funded by Research England. This four-month-long accelerator is open to businesses across the UK that are focused on Nature Positive and Sustainable initiatives. Across the programme, experts in the fields of equity fundraising and finance, intellectual property, and nature-positive approaches to business growth and R&D will lead a cohort of 20 businesses to growth. 
Experts such as Finlay Kerr, fundraising expert, Sam Simpson, Co-Founder of FounderCatalyst, and Marco Hacon of Green Angel Ventures will lead on programme delivery.

Creative Futures Accelerator – endorsed by Grow London Local
January - April 2025

Converting creative passions into creative businesses that are accessible to Newham businesses and student and alum communities. This early-stage accelerator in partnership with Grow London Local, takes place over three months and is perfect for creatives and artists who have conceptualised their perfect career in the arts but need knowledge and guidance to develop this into a successful business. 
Open to Newham and East London Residents, workshops will cover, validation workshops such as business model canvas, and financial models led by UEL academics such as Alison Lowe, who received an MBE for services to the fashion industry in 2017.

RDSBL - Startup Gateway Accelerator
January - March 2025 and June - July 2025

Providing local and community businesses with essential Business Skills this programme is delivered by entrepreneurs and business experts. The two-month accelerator sprints are open to early-stage Newham and local businesses and will enable businesses to define their value proposition and refine the art of pitching. 
The accelerator culminates with a showcase to the local business community and comes with free membership to the Newham Chamber of Commerce. 
Previous successful businesses such as ModeIN Instruments and Folabomi House of Fashion have gone on to grow their businesses and expand their customer bases because of their involvement in the programme.

Sustainability Research Institute - UEL - Path to Zero Carbon 
July 2025

An intensive programme bringing together businesses, charities and other organisations on their path to zero carbon. The initiative will provide organisations with the tools to understand and monitor carbon emissions, write a zero-carbon policy and draft an action plan, develop a strategic approach and garner buy-in from internal staff, customers and other stakeholders. 
This programme is run by UEL’s Sustainability Research Institute (SRI), one of the first dedicated initiatives in the UK. SRI works with people and organisations to consider their perspectives on energy efficiency, climate change, biodiversity and green infrastructure.

Year-Round Business Incubation

In addition to sector-specific programmes, an expansive package of business and incubation services will be made available to TerraDock members and programme participants. Additionally, TerraDock will provide industry-leading facilities which drive forward world-class research, prototyping, product testing and development. 

EiR – Entrepreneurs in Residence Programme

Industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and sector leaders will provide one-to-one mentoring, deliver workshops and host events designed to knowledge share and inspire businesses towards growth and success.

Research and Prototyping facilities

Members of TerraDock will gain access to world-class fabrication, testing and prototyping facilities. A new AR/VR space within the centre will support businesses adopting digital first applications, while the Makers Space containing some of the world's fastest and most efficient 3D printers will enable rapid prototyping and testing.

Tax and Legal Advice Clinic

Delivered by UEL’s Royal Docks School of Business and Law, businesses will be able to attend weekly clinics to receive tax and legal advice and support, enabling them to navigate often complex business legal administration areas as they grow their businesses. 

Student Enterprise ‘Millionaires Club’
TerraDock members will also be able to convene with student businesses, attracting top talent and creating internship and employment opportunities for students and graduates.

Community Events Programme

TerraDocks sits within an area of vast growth and potential regeneration and growth for this area of Newham. Businesses that take up residence here will be able to take part in a range of activities and events designed to foster networking and working relationships outside of typical working hours. This will work toward fuelling growth and life for this part of Newham.