Endorsing bodies are private organisations approved by the Home Office to assess Innovator Founder business plans. Their decision is the real gatekeeper for this visa. The list has changed several times since 2023, with older legacy bodies being removed through 2026.
Who can endorse new applicants
At the time of writing, the bodies that accept new Innovator Founder applications are:
- UK Endorsing Services (UKES)
- Innovator International
- Envestors Limited
- Global Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP), which only endorses founders it has invited onto its programme
Legacy endorsing bodies can only deal with people they endorsed before 13 April 2023, so they are not an option for new applicants.
What endorsement costs
- Endorsement application: £1,000 per applicant, plus VAT (about £1,200 including VAT).
- Contact-point meetings: £500 each plus VAT (about £600 including VAT), with at least two during the visa.
- Some bodies charge extra for assessment or other services. Check each body's current fees directly.
How to choose
- Sector fit: some bodies have more experience assessing certain industries, such as technology or health.
- Process: compare how each one assesses applications, whether there is an interview and typical timescales.
- Your plan: tailor the plan to the body you choose. Each emphasises slightly different things.
Choosing an endorsing body and completing its application can be part of immigration advice. We prepare your plan; a regulated adviser or solicitor can advise on the application itself, and we are happy to work alongside yours.
Immigration rules and fees change. We write business plans; we do not give immigration advice. Always confirm the current rules on GOV.UK or with a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor before you apply.