UK Global Entrepreneur Programme (GEP)

The GEP is the Department for International Trade’s (DIT) flagship programme that enables internationally mobile entrepreneurs and innovation-rich companies to scale and grow from a UK global HQ.

The GEP offers mentoring and business support to non-UK based founders to help them set up and scale their business from a UK global headquarters. Support is free and includes:

• Mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs
• Providing introductions to key networks including investors
• Guidance on how to grow internationally
• Continued help from DIT once located in the UK, especially around exporting

GEP participants are mentored by experienced entrepreneurs known as ‘dealmakers’, who are experienced in setting up, building, scaling and selling technology companies. When the founder and company have relocated to the UK, GEP continues to support them through its Alumni Academy Programme, which helps them to:

• Build capability in key business areas
• Scale up and fulfil their export ambitions
• Make connections in the wider UK tech eco-system

To qualify for GEP support, applicants must be:

• An overseas-based entrepreneur and founder of an innovative technology business
• Willing to relocate and establish the company’s global headquarters in the UK

Applicants must have a:

• Potentially ground-breaking product or service based on unique technology
• Business plan outlining how the business can expand from a headquarters in the UK
• Customer-validated product either already in the market or ready to launch
• Clear commercial proposition that addresses a large global opportunity

GEP can endorse an applicant’s application for an ‘innovator visa’.