The Oxford Moonshot

Programme overview

The Oxford Moonshot is a Launch to Grow stage programme. Focused on high-impact innovation, the programme supports those tackling some of the world’s toughest challenges – from cleantech and medtech to AI, fintech, and beyond.

Through a mix of workshops, founder talks, industry clinics, and peer-to-peer sessions, participants gain the skills and determination to take their ventures forward. One-on-one mentoring and leadership coaching build resilience and decision-making ability, while regular “propulsion boost” sessions provide focus on teams, customers, funding, and growth.

By the end of the programme, founders will have developed clear missions, sharpened their business models, built traction, and refined their investor readiness. The journey concludes with a Demo Day, where ventures pitch to investors, partners, and experts for equity-free prizes, ongoing support, and a chance to be taken into stage 2 of the programme to receive continued support. 

Who is it for?

The programme is open to:

• DPhil candidates at the University of Oxford (or alumni within 2 years)
• Early Career Researchers (0–5 years post-DPhil)
• Promising postgraduate students (Masters and above, or alumni within 2 years)

Participants must be committed to building scalable ventures, with some early evidence of traction and validation, such as a prototype, MVP, proof of concept, or early adopters.

How to apply

Applications open in October 2025 and close in November 2025.

Entry requires submission of an online application form demonstrating your idea, team, and progress to date. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to join the cohort, beginning with a kick-off session in December, followed by monthly propulsion boosts from January to April 2026. culminating in the Demo Day in late April 2026.

Participation is free, with no equity taken.

Applications open on October 17th 2025.