Get started

You don't need a business idea or a business degree. You just need to get started.

This six-week programme is designed for students and graduates who are curious about entrepreneurship and want to learn how ideas become successful businesses. Whether you're exploring self-employment, hoping to launch a side hustle, or simply looking to develop skills for the future, Get Started will give you the foundations you need. And the best part? No business experience is required to attend this programme.

Each session takes place on a Wednesdays from 1.30pm-4pm, starting on 28 October 2026.

Programme schedule:

Hosted by: Camila Valenzuela Arriagada. BeLingual

Week 1: 28 October - Idea generation – What could your idea be?

Week 2: 4 November – Market research – Who needs your creation?

Week 3: 11 November – Business mechanisms – How do you make it work as a business?

Week 4: 18 November – Finances and bootstrapping – Where does the money come in?

Week 5: 25 November – Marketing – How to get in front of your customer?

Week 6: 2 December – Pitching – how to hone your pitch for success.

The sessions will take place in person in Studio X at the Innovation Centre on the Colchester Campus.

After completion of all six weeks, participants will have the chance to pitch their business ideas for up to £250. The pitching event will be held on Wednesday 9 December 2026. You must attend at least 4 sessions to be eligible to pitch for funding.

Please complete the application form to be considered for the programme, without a complete application you will not be eligible to attend the sessions. Spaces are limited to 25 participants, and you will be contacted to inform you of the outcome.