About ConceptionX
ConceptionX is a the UK's leading PhD deeptech venture program. Researchers tackle big industry challenges and launch startups. They're building what they call "venture scientists." These are researchers specifically trained in enterprise skills to tackle tomorrow's problems.
The program has been with AcceleratorApp for over 6 years and collaborates with more than 30 universities, guiding over 450 participants through 7 cohorts. They're not just another accelerator. They're bridging the gap between academic research and real-world impact.
The Tracking and Accountability Challenge
ConceptionX is laser-focused on delivering real value and outcomes to the PhDs and startups they work with. But they hit a wall when it came to measurement and follow-through.
The team's central challenge was keeping track of startup KPIs and the outcomes of each interaction. When you're working with researchers who need to prove their ideas work in the real world, you can't afford to lose track of progress or let important touchpoints slip through the cracks.
Without proper tracking, it was hard to show the true impact of their program or identify which interventions were actually moving the needle for their venture scientists.
Why ConceptionX Chose AcceleratorApp
After a thorough analysis of available options, ConceptionX selected AcceleratorApp based on three key factors:
1. User-Friendly Interface
The platform needed to work for both Ph.D. researchers and program managers without a steep learning curve.
2. Flexible, Affordable Pricing
ConceptionX found a pricing model that fit their budget while scaling with their needs as they grew.
3. Comprehensive Activity and Outcome Tracking
The ability to track both activities (coaching sessions, events) and outcomes (startup KPIs, program metrics) in one place was crucial for their evidence-based approach.
Complete Journey Management
ConceptionX uses AcceleratorApp to manage the entire startup journey from application to alumni relations:
Application and Selection Process
Evaluators interview and score candidates using ConceptionX's custom scoring system built into AcceleratorApp. Our automation tools handle meeting scheduling and coordination throughout the selection process.
Cohort Experience
Once selected, startups get access to the full curriculum of events planned for their cohort. They can explore information about their new community, access resources designed specifically for venture scientists, and schedule meetings with mentors and coaches.
Progress Tracking
Throughout the cohort, startups update their KPIs while mentors and coaches evaluate progress and track their own outcomes. This creates a comprehensive picture of what's working and what needs adjustment.
Alumni Relations
Even after graduation, ConceptionX can easily keep track of their alumni through the same platform, maintaining relationships and tracking long-term success.
Real Results Over Three Years
ConceptionX is now in its third consecutive year using AcceleratorApp, and the results speak for themselves:
Single Community Platform
One platform (AcceleratorApp) serves their entire community. From applicants to alumni, it creates continuity and connection across all program phases.
Stronger Alumni Relationships
ConceptionX maintains excellent relationships with all their alumni startups, leading to continued engagement and valuable feedback loops.
Growing Application Numbers
With over 1,473 applications from different cohorts, each cohort attracts more applicants than the last, indicating strong word-of-mouth and program reputation.
Clearer Portfolio Insights
The team now has a much clearer picture of their portfolio performance and can make strategic introductions to partners when opportunities arise.
Third-Party Validation
Startups who've been through ConceptionX have recommended AcceleratorApp to other accelerators they've joined, validating our strong effectiveness from the user perspective.
Building the Future of Venture Science
ConceptionX's success with AcceleratorApp demonstrates how the right platform can support ambitious programs that blur traditional boundaries. By giving Ph.D. researchers the tools and tracking they need to become successful venture scientists, ConceptionX is creating a new model for research commercialization.
AcceleratorApp's ability to handle their unique requirements has been key to their growth and impact. From academic evaluation criteria to long-term outcome tracking, everything works seamlessly.
This case study showcases ConceptionX's six-year journey using AcceleratorApp to build and scale their venture science program while maintaining strong relationships and clear impact measurement.