A research project into Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) diversity and inclusion funded by SETsquared Bristol has highlighted the need for increased engagement between the tech sector and Bristol’s diverse local business communities.

The research report was conducted by ACH and Up Our Street with the aim to improve and increase the inclusion and representation of BAME people within SETsquared’s tech incubator.

As a result of the research recommendations SETsquared Bristol are planning to:

• Partner with local community organisations in order to headhunt new talented mentors and experts
• Host the popular SETsquared Idea2Pitch event, which develops business ideas into a pitch, in community venues
• Launch a bursary scheme to subsidise the cost of SETsquared membership for gifted entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds
• Create an inclusive marketing strategy to implement citywide

SETsquared Bristol Centre Director, Monika Radclyffe, said:

‘This research was very important to us, but it only marks the beginning of the journey. There is huge untapped potential in the city and we hope that by implementing recommendations from the report we will be able to attract and retain entrepreneurs from BAME backgrounds, as well as equip them with skills for success’

Armed with the knowledge and insights gained from the project, SETsquared Bristol is committed to supporting BAME business leaders and entrepreneurs. Download the full SETsquared Bristol BAME inclusion research report

Read more about ongoing SETsquared projects here