Tech South West launches UK marine autonomy accelerator

Tech South West has launched a National Marine Autonomy Accelerator with Babcock and the University of Plymouth, creating a specialist Growth Forge cohort for companies developing autonomous marine systems and related technologies.

The scheme is open to applicants from across the UK. It is aimed at firms already operating in marine technology and those planning to enter the sector. Organisers present it as a route into defence and maritime supply chains, with access to specialist expertise and facilities in the South West of England.

The launch comes as Plymouth builds momentum following its designation as the UK's National Centre for Marine Autonomy. The South West has also raised its profile in marine technology, with defence, academic and industrial activity clustered around ports, research institutions and test areas.

Programme format

The accelerator runs throughout the year and follows the Growth Forge model introduced by Tech South West in 2024. Organisers say Growth Forge has supported more than 110 companies across several sectors.

Participants will attend three in-person "Growth Days" at Exeter Science Park, the University of Plymouth, and Future Space at the University of the West of England. Between these events, the programme includes online learning modules and peer group sessions. Companies will also receive one-to-one mentoring, access to growth assessment tools, and input from partner organisations and maritime specialists.

An Investor Day is scheduled for October 2026, when companies will pitch to investors as the final stage of the cohort.

Defence link

The partnership combines Tech South West's accelerator structure, Babcock's defence and maritime footprint, and the University of Plymouth's research base. Babcock works across defence programmes and marine engineering, while the university's research spans marine autonomy and dual-use technology.

Tech South West co-founder Dan Pritchard said the mix of industry and research input sets the programme apart for founders operating in a tightly regulated sector with complex procurement routes. "Bringing together Babcock's defence expertise and the University of Plymouth's research capabilities creates something genuinely unique for founders. Working as part of a focused group, and directly alongside a major defence company, will bring real benefits to everyone involved. Accelerating innovation, defence procurement, regulatory frameworks and accessing testing facilities, we'll be providing an array of targeted opportunities," he said.

The cohort builds on an existing relationship between Babcock and the University of Plymouth. Both organisations are part of Team Plymouth, a collaborative initiative formed after the UK Defence Growth Deal.

Andrew Munday, Babcock's global technology director, said the accelerator supports the company's efforts to engage smaller suppliers and bring new technology into customer programmes. "This partnership with Tech South West underpins our commitment to support and ultimately integrate the most forward‐thinking SMEs into the wider capabilities we deliver for our customers," he said.

"With our growing investment and long‐standing presence in the region, focusing our efforts here enables us to enhance existing marine autonomy initiatives, drive economic growth and strengthen the resilience of our local communities. Collaborating on next‐generation marine autonomy means we are directly investing in growth in the UK and building a safer, more secure world for all," Munday said.

Research partner

The University of Plymouth will act as a specialist partner, providing research insight and links to regional initiatives in marine autonomy.

Professor Kevin Jones, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, said advances in marine autonomy and dual-use technologies are creating commercial opportunities for civilian and defence applications. "As a University, we have a long track record in using our expertise to foster innovation, and advances in marine autonomy and dual-use technologies are unlocking opportunities across the region and nationally," he said.

"We are committed to working together with our partners across Team Plymouth and the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, to support businesses of all shapes and sizes to grow and make the most of the possibility now coming their way," Jones added.

Wider network

The marine autonomy cohort sits within the wider Growth Forge programme, which includes partners across technology, professional services and finance. Other named partners across Growth Forge include Microsoft, Program Agency, Ashfords, Howden and Westcotts.

Applications are open now. The cohort will meet in Exeter in March, followed by sessions in Plymouth in June and Bristol in September, ahead of the Investor Day later in the year.