Virgin StartUp has introduced a pioneering accelerator programme, Momentum, aimed at supporting dyslexic entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses. This initiative underscores the economic impact of founders with Dyslexic Thinking abilities. According to new research by global charity Made By Dyslexia, dyslexic entrepreneurs contribute at least £4.6 billion annually to the UK GDP and sustain over 60,000 jobs. The study also indicates that one in three business founders is dyslexic, with skills such as creativity, problem-solving, visualisation, and big-picture thinking being particularly suited to entrepreneurship.
Momentum is an eight-week accelerator designed to enhance these strengths through customised workshops, individual mentoring, and specialised resources. Additionally, Virgin StartUp has established a dedicated Dyslexic Thinking space within its online community for founders. Interested participants must apply by 30 September 2025, with the programme commencing on 14 October.
Elle Upshall, Scale Up Lead at Virgin StartUp, emphasised the programme’s goal to empower founders by leveraging their unique qualities. She stated, “Momentum has been designed to help dyslexic founders embrace the strengths that set them apart. We know that Dyslexic Thinking brings creative problem-solving and vision in abundance, and this programme is about giving entrepreneurs the support, tools, and confidence to use these strengths to scale their businesses.”
Coinciding with the launch, Made By Dyslexia, Virgin StartUp, and Virgin Unite have initiated a nationwide awareness campaign across 46 UK towns and cities. This campaign celebrates world-changing inventions created by Dyslexic Thinkers, such as the car, lightbulb, and smartphone, and recognises global brands founded by dyslexic entrepreneurs, including Apple, Ikea, Jo Malone, and Virgin itself.
Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, has long regarded dyslexia as his entrepreneurial “superpower”. He commented, “Much of my success as an entrepreneur comes from my Dyslexic Thinking. It’s my superpower. Dyslexic Thinking has enabled me to see the world differently and find new solutions to old problems. The world needs dyslexic entrepreneurs more than ever, so I’m delighted to support this campaign and I am looking forward to hearing the stories behind the dyslexic founders who join the Virgin StartUp programme.”
Kate Griggs, founder of Made By Dyslexia, highlighted the importance of dyslexic founders to the UK economy. She stated, “Entrepreneurs are the engine of the British economy – and research shows Dyslexic Thinking fuels at least one in three of them. To boost growth, create jobs, and move the nation forward, the UK has never needed Dyslexic Thinking more.”
Despite recent recognition of Dyslexic Thinking as both a dictionary term and a LinkedIn skill, many entrepreneurs still encounter outdated misconceptions and insufficient support. Momentum aims to address this gap.
Alex Wright, co-founder of DASH Water, is a beneficiary of early-stage support from Virgin StartUp. His brand, known for no-sugar soft drinks, is projected to sell 50 million cans across 20 countries by 2025. Wright remarked, “It’s no surprise to me that Dyslexic Thinkers over-index as entrepreneurs. While dyslexia felt like a challenge at school, it’s been one of my biggest assets as a founder. It’s helped me to spot gaps in the market, see problems as opportunities, dream big, and build a successful, disruptive business.”
With applications now open, Virgin StartUp hopes Momentum will inspire and equip the next wave of dyslexic founders to scale their businesses and strengthen their role as a vital driver of the UK economy.
You must be logged in to post a comment.