Support for entrepreneurs
The Enterprise and Start-up team is here to assist you in developing the skills needed for business start-up, self-employment, and innovation.
As alumni, you can access the following services for up to three years post-graduation:
- networking opportunities
- guest speaker events
- skills and business start-up workshops
- one-to-one business advice
- access to free start-up office space (limited availability)
- access to internal and external mentors
Opportunities for entrepreneurial success
Spring Start-up and Freelance Awards
Applications for this year’s Awards are now open and will close 25 February 2025.
Our annual business ideas competition aims to inspire and motivate our entrepreneurial students and graduates by providing funding and support. Last year year, twelve young entrepreneurs emerged victorious, each winning a generous cash prize to help grow their businesses. Entries are now open for the Spring 2025 awards and close on 25th February!
There are three awards categories open to all students and graduates from the last three years, sponsored by Santander Universities:
- Inspiring Idea Award (£1,000 top prize)
- Innovative Developer Award (£3,000 top prize)
- Outstanding Founder Award (£5,000 top prize)
There is also an additional category which is restricted to individuals or teams which must include at least one engineering student or graduate and is sponsored by Engineers in Business.
- Inspired Engineer (£1,500 top prize)
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for any of the awards mentioned above, sign up for the Start-up and Freelance Pathway on your Student Futures account. All the information you need for the awards can be found on the pathway. Begin working on your idea now with the support of our Student Enterprise team.