JLAB Retail Innovation Accelerator

by Startacus Admin

JLAB- the startup accelerator by John Lewis- is returning for a third year, and is now on the lookout for ambitious startups that are ready to get onto the fast-track.

At Startacus we have followed the progress of the JLAB programme with interest since its inception 3 years ago, and are glad to see it make a return and bring a spot of colour to the London accelerator circuit.

On with the details!

What is JLAB?

It is is an annual 12-week accelerator programme in which major retailer John Lewis throws open its doors to 5 of the most innovative and promising startups in the retail space, that could potentially help improve the company’s operations.

The programme will give startups the opportunity to take their businesses to the next level as well as build deep relationships with the UK’s leading omni-channel retailer.

What will Startups Get?

The 5 startups that are selected to take part in JLAB will be given access to some nice benefits including:

• Product validation from both John Lewis and their customers

• Mentorship from John Lewis senior leadership

• Investment from the JLAB micro-fund (there is a total fund of £200K and each startup will have access to a maximum of £100K)

• Expert mentors from the retail space

• Free office space in John Lewis’ London Headquarters

• A first-class education programme based on the Disciplined Entrepreneurship Method from MIT

Who is it For?

Innovative retail Startups at any stage of development are especially encouraged to apply for this opportunity.  

Specifically JLAB has outlined a few key categories that it is particularly interested in with the upcoming programme:

• Health & Well-Being - Exciting products or services that might help John Lewis customers to take better care of themselves

• Simplify My Life- i.e. innovations that might help to simplify the lives of John Lewis Customers

• Effortless Shopping- New ideas which will help to make the shoppers in store / online

• Tech for Kids- New products that are aimed at kids

• Surprise us- This is a wildcard category so you can let your imagination run wild!

Applications close on the 8th of May, just pop over the the JLAB website for more info on the programme, and to make your application.

This feature was created with support from the team at L Marks innovation partners. 

Good luck to all, and fingers crossed we can get a member of the Startacus community in there!

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Published on: 20th April 2016