What is Wayra?
Let us introduce Wayra to you - the worldwide start-up accelerator programme of O2 parent Telefonica targeting early stage technology start-ups and entrepreneurs of all ages and backgrounds. Wayra was created to find and nurture the best technology ideas and talent, aiming to become an accelerator for the development of future ‘Silicon Valleys’ in the countries where Telefonica is present.
Wayra is set to become the world’s largest technology accelerator programme. At present, Wayra Academies are already open in nine countries, >8,000 projects were screened and >100 startups funded. By the end of 2012, 12 Wayra academies will be operative funding approximately 250-350 startups each year.
What we offer
Like an incubator, Wayra gives everything a start-up needs to develop its young business. Technology entrepreneurs can submit their projects with the best each receiving seed investments of up to €50,000 and access to new state-of-the-art workspaces, the Wayra Academies, where the startups work with other like minded entrepreneurs.
Wayra gives access to technology expertise and mentoring from within Telefonica and through its wide global network of partners helping the startups to develop and refine their business idea. Also the businesses get provided with access to Telefonica’s 300 million strong customer base. Furthermore, Wayra boosts the startups’ visibility in media, customer target groups and investor communities.
Projects initially spend six months in the Wayra Academy, receiving help to accelerate their business and technical support to further develop their ideas. At the end of the six months, projects are introduced to a growing network of venture capitalists for next stage funding.
How to apply?
Applications for a space in the programme and at the Wayra Academy in Munich, Germany, can be handed in between May 21st - July 8th at www.wayra.org/de
Applications for a space in the programme and at the Wayra Academy in Dublin, Ireland, can be handed in between May 10th - June 24th at www.wayra.org/en/ireland
WayraWeeks
All applications will be evaluated to ensure they meet Wayra’s criteria and the start-ups for whom Wayra can create the most value will be selected. An internal group of experts across Telefónica will meet and narrow down the shortlist to around 30 projects who be invited to attend the WayraWeek.
The German WayraWeek is scheduled to take place during the Campus Party in Berlin where the selected start-ups will pitch their ideas to an independent jury. During this event, Wayra organizes workshops, speeches and panel discussions as well as providing the necessary mentoring to finalize the project pitches. Up to 10 of them get invited to join the Wayra Academy in Munich and start their incubation in September until February when the next generation of start-ups moves into the accelerator.
The WayraWeek in Irleand will take place between September 3rd – September 5th.
Follow Wayra Germany on Facebook, Twitter & Download the Wayra Germany Flyer
