Applications for this year’s Morgan Stanley startup accelerator programme, which provides access to capital for early-stage technology led by under-represented founders, have opened.

Launched in 2017, and expanded to include founders in Europe, the Middle East and Africa in 2021, the Morgan Stanley Inclusive Ventures Lab promotes financial inclusion and provides founders of tech and tech-enabled startups with access to investors, along with the tools, resources and connections they need to grow and thrive.

The Morgan Stanley Inclusive Ventures Lab is an intensive five-month accelerator designed to help further develop and scale startups, culminating in a demo day and showcase presentation to the investor community.

Morgan Stanley – US multinational investment management and financial services company – will provide participating companies with a cash contribution, a five-month curated programme, mentorship, networking, office space for the duration of the programme, and access to certain external advisors in exchange for an equity stake of five percent.

The cash contribution is $250 000 to each company participating in the New York-based programme and £250 000 to each company participating in the London-based programme.

“The curriculum is tailored to suit each individual cohort, but it generally includes such topics as branding your startup, developing your investor pitch, refining your value prop and devising effective finance and sales strategies. In addition, we offer participants the opportunity to meet with industry experts for one-on-one consultations,” says the company.

“We pair each company with a Morgan Stanley mentor, chosen specifically for their relevant expertise. Your mentor communicates with you regularly and can provide advice and counsel on company growth and scaling your business.”

In addition, participants will be introduced to investors during their time at the lab, and Morgan Stanley says it leverages its ‘broad network of clients and investors on behalf of its Lab cohorts, making introductions and connections that aim to grow and scale each company’s business’.

Demo day culminates the five-month Lab programme, with each founder pitching to an audience of potential investors and clients. Once the programme concludes, Morgan Stanley will stay in contact with former participants and follow their successes, continuing to offer advice and support as needed.