Initial Wave of Innovators Join BetaDen's Incubate Programme with Worcestershire’s First AI Testbed Facilities

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A bold new chapter in Worcestershire’s innovation landscape begins as 15 early-stage technology businesses commence BetaDen’s newly opened incubator programme at the Old Court in Kidderminster.

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BetaDen is Worcestershire’s provider of support programmes for innovative companies and entrepreneurs, which has been twice nationally recognised as ‘the best’ in the UK.

Enabled by funding from Malvern Hills, Wychavon, and Wyre Forest District Councils, and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, the launch marks the first time BetaDen’s Incubate programme has been delivered from the north of the county, giving early-stage businesses access to high quality support and bespoke facilities, right in the heart of Kidderminster at the newly renovated Old Court.

From AI tools and creative platforms to sustainable innovation and sports technology, the diversity of businesses on Intake 5.0 reflects a regional tech scene that’s vibrant, ambitious, and growing fast.

The onboarding day also marked the announcement of BetaDen’s bespoke AI testbed ‘BLADE’ (BetaDen Localised AI Development & Evaluation), based at the Old Court - a local first. BLADE is a pioneering resource designed to give businesses a safe and supported environment to explore, develop, and validate artificial intelligence technologies. The testbed will be available for internal use within the programme soon, and the aim is for it to be open for public bookings in the coming months.

Donston Powell, External Affairs Director at BetaDen, commented: “Welcoming our first intake of innovators to the Old Court is a huge moment for BetaDen and the local ecosystem. 

“These businesses are tackling some of today’s biggest challenges with fresh ideas and bold thinking, and we’re proud to support them with the resources, mentorship, and network they need to grow.”

Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda, said:

“We are very pleased and proud to see the first BetaDen cohort launched at the Old Court. It’s great that BetaDen is now established its new North Worcestershire home complete with purpose-built spaces and facilities to support cutting edge innovation and creativity.  We wish the business leaders on this new cohort every success and look forward to watching their businesses take root and grow.”

The programme offers a powerful mix of community, mentorship and cutting-edge infrastructure. On-site facilities at the Old Court include a 3D printer lab, a podcasting studio, and modern collaboration spaces.

Expressions of interest for Intake 6.0 of BetaDen Incubate, which will commence in October 2025, are now open.

For further details, visit www.beta-den.com/incubate