The ScaleX Accelerator Programme, recently recognised by the ScaleUp Institute as One to Watch, is a year-long, evidence-based leadership and scaling initiative for CEOs, founders, and managing directors of ambitious SMEs across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Based on the proprietary ScaleX™ Framework, it supports leaders in overcoming common barriers to growth by aligning mindset, strategy, and systems. Developed by Simple Scaling and structured around the 10 Principles of scaling (Psyche, Purpose & Vision, People, Planning etc) aligned to 3 themes namely Inspire, Orientate, and Accelerate, the programme focuses on sustainable growth and long-term business performance.

Designed for time-constrained leaders, the ScaleX Accelerator combines diagnostic assessment, structured learning, and peer accountability. Each participant begins with the ScaleX™ Insights Assessment, a 360° diagnostic that benchmarks organisational readiness across the ten scaling principles, identifying key challenges and priorities for scaling. This informs a twelve-month programme of workshops, residential sessions, and peer learning designed to embed behavioural change and improve strategic alignment.

The programme comprises twelve practical workshops and three residential retreats, each focused on key areas such as leadership mindset, purpose and vision, operational excellence, and organisational culture. Delivered by leading international experts in leadership, mindset, sustainable business, and scaleup growth, the sessions integrate evidence-based frameworks with applied practice. Participants also have access to curated materials, including Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business, and over 200 hours of expert interviews through the ScaleX Insider Podcast.

Participants engage directly with investors, coaches, and specialists in sustainability and performance. Monthly Mastermind Groups and on-site Planning Days provide opportunities for accountability and shared learning. Beyond the accelerator, the ScaleX Club offers a continuing peer network supported by the wider ScaleX Ecosystem, which includes ScaleX Talent Solutions for recruitment, ScaleX Elevate for early-stage coaching, and ScaleX Investments, which provides growth capital of up to £1 million to selected scaleups. ScaleX also works collaboratively with stakeholders across the Northern Ireland ecosystem, including Invest NI, Catalyst, and local Growth Hubs, to strengthen the scaling pipeline and promote leadership development.

Since 2021, 63 scaleup businesses have completed the programme, representing a broad range of sectors. Participants achieved an average annual turnover growth of 29% and average employment growth of 26%. Collectively, they have raised £48 million in external funding, including £2.2 million through ScaleX Investments, and the programme has helped 21 companies recruit 172 people via ScaleX Talent Solutions. All surveyed participants reported greater leadership confidence and improved organisational alignment.

The programme has achieved an NPS of 86 and an average satisfaction score of 9.5 out of 10. By combining diagnostic insight, structured learning, and ecosystem collaboration, ScaleX contributes to a stronger, more connected scaling environment across the UK and Ireland.

The ScaleUp Institute will continue to monitor the programme’s development and its contribution to strengthening leadership capability, watching closely to see how its evolution delivers further impact for founders and leaders across the UK’s scaling business community.

ScaleX™ Accelerator website