Start-Up Programme (Idea Ignition)

The start-up programme to get your idea off the ground

Our 2025 programme has now reopened for enrolment, click on the link below to complete our registration form.

 

Are you ready to bring your idea to life? Participate in our innovation programme to:

  • Test Your Idea: Get valuable feedback and refine your concept.
  • Access Funding: Secure the financial support you need to grow.
  • Join Our Start-Up Community: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Stand out and work towards an exclusive spot on our prestigious UoB Elevate programme at The Exchange in Birmingham City Centre. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to elevate your start-up journey!

This programme is split into four weekly sessions with an option to attend Venturefest at a fifth week. At the end of the programme, eligible participants can pitch for £500 funding to help develop your business idea or claim back costs for an established business through the Start-Up fund.

 

Eligibility for Programme funding

In order to secure fast track access to our funding, you must attend at least 2 of the 4 sessions. Applications can be made via our Funding webpage.

By the end of the programme you will:

  • Have learnt how to develop the business model around your idea and pitch.
  • Learn how to identify and target specific customers.
  • Meet like-minded students and form part of the start-up community.

Key dates

  • Session 1 - Wednesday 12 February 2025, 13:00-15:00 - Idea Validation session
  • Session 2 - Wednesday 26 February 2025, 13:00-15:00 - Value proposition session
  • Session 3 - Wednesday 5 March 2025, 13:00-16:00 - Go to market (The session will run from 13:00 - 15:00, with the chance to stay until 16:00 for an optional question and answer session.)
  • Session 4 - Wednesday 12 March 2025, 13:00-16:00 - Business model Canvas (The session will run from 13:00 - 15:00, with the chance to stay until 16:00 for an optional question and answer session.)
  • Session 5 (optional) - Thursday 19 March 2025, 08:00-17:00 - Venture Fest

Eligibility

Idea Ignition is open to University of Birmingham students and recent graduates. You do not need any experience of start-ups to join the programme but you do need to come with a business idea in mind, as this programme is designed to help get your business started.  We also welcome any students or recent graduates who have already made the step of starting a business.

Please note, there are restrictions on International students accessing funding due to Visa conditions.

Further reading

Resources and recommended reading – most hyperlinks are of summaries of the books:

Colleges

Professional Services