The programme is backed by Sage, Canva, VC Talent Lab and Latham & Watkins and launched on 30th January at Canva’s European HQ in London.

Stephen Millard, Partner at Notion Capital, says: “Startup leadership positions can become intense and lonely jobs, where key individuals shoulder the toughest challenges to drive out-sized value for their businesses. This imbalance is known as ‘Price’s Law’: a small number of individuals are responsible for driving a majority of the value. Startups operate at extreme levels of growth with limited resources. With only one in 200 startups making it to £100 million ARR, Price’s Law People are arguably some of the most valuable people in tech.”

Millard continues “The result is that founders come to rely on their best operators, promoting them into ever more challenging roles. These individuals take on the hardest jobs, navigating extreme ambiguity and breakneck pace. But as the company propels forward – thanks to their efforts – the skills that once made them indispensable can suddenly leave them without a clear path forward.” Therefore, Notion Capital created Upstarts, the first programme of its kind, by operators, for operators, dedicated to connecting and preparing the next generation of startup leaders in Europe for the common pitfalls of scaling.

Aaron Harris, CTO Sage, says:“ As a member of Intacct's founding team I understand first-hand the challenges and rewards of scaling a business from the ground up. Empowering startup leaders with the skills and confidence to navigate pivotal moments is not just about their individual success – it’s about creating a ripple effect that drives innovation and strengthens the broader tech ecosystem, including the small and medium-sized businesses they serve. The Upstarts programme reflects Sage’s commitment to fostering innovation and enabling businesses to thrive. By investing in these leaders, we’re helping to shape a future where SMBs and startups alike are built on bold ideas and resilient leadership that will shape the industry for years to come.”

Upstarts consists of a 10-week programme, designed to equip the next generation of startup leaders with the skills and insights needed to navigate the challenges of rapid growth. The cross-functional, handpicked inaugural cohort will include 20 Director and VP-level operators from Notion Capital’s portfolio. This includes some of the most promising SaaS companies across the UK and Europe, including Cogna, TechWolf, and Quantum Systems. Each participant was personally nominated by their company’s Founder or CEO.

The programme – developed by Notion Capital – combines practical masterclasses, real-world case studies, and candid reflections from experienced operators, including those who have successfully scaled and exited companies including MessageLabs, Currencycloud, Intacct, Inter-com, and Yext. Programme partners Sage, VC Talent Lab, Canva, and Latham & Watkins, all bring deep expertise and networks to support participants in their growth journey. It includes an in-person launch followed by 90 minute biweekly sessions programme divided into four tracks: leading, operating, scaling, and investing.

Michelle Cheng, Talent Director at Notion Capital, says: “The startup operator journey is not for the faint of heart, but it doesn’t need to be as lonely as it currently is. As one of the less than 2% of operator-led VCs, Notion created Upstarts, the first programme of its kind – by operators, for operators – dedicated to connecting and preparing the next generation of startup leaders in Europe for the common pitfalls of scaling.”

Duncan Clark, Head of Europe at Canva, says:“ At Canva, we believe in giving individuals and organisations the tools they need to succeed, and we’re thrilled to support Notion Capital’s Upstarts programme. Initiatives like this are key in fostering the development of tomorrow’s leaders. Upstarts creates a much-needed space for startup leaders to connect, learn, and grow; helping them to scale with confidence and creativity. We're proud to be hosting the initiative at our London HQ and excited to be involved in upcoming workshops.”

Following the pilot, Notion plans to expand Upstarts to the wider startup community in the next cycle, providing even more SaaS leaders with the opportunity to sharpen their skills, connect with peers, and accelerate their careers.

If you would like to receive updates on the programme or nominate yourself or someone you know, fill in this form to be alerted of the next cohort.