Ignite

The Ignite programme supports bold business ideas with tools, resources, networks and funding to drive rapid growth, innovation and scalability.

Apply for Ignite 2026

About Ignite

Ignite is designed for students, graduates, and staff with bold, innovative business ideas poised for rapid growth. Whether you're aiming to disrupt industries, break into new markets, or refine your operations for scalability, this programme provides the tools, resources, and networks you need to succeed. Participants will also have the opportunity to pitch for grant funding of up to £5,000 to accelerate their venture (funding cannot be accessed by staff).

Alert Applications for Ignite 2026 will close on 1 February 2026.

Requirements

A strong business idea: demonstrates space for innovation, scalability, and clear market potential
Ability to fully commit to the programme: willingness to dedicate time and effort to all sessions, mentorship check-ins, and deliverables, ensuring maximum benefit from the programme.

Outcomes of the programme

Participants will have a refined business idea that is innovative and scalable
Participants will have the opportunity to pitch up to £5,000 in grant funding
Participants will have created a minimum viable product
Participants will have created a comprehensive pitch deck
Participants will have registered their business with Companies House as a limited company (not applicable to students with a Student Visa)
Have the opportunity to apply for an Innovator Founder Visa with an official endorsing body.

Programme content

The programme is delivered online once a year between February and June with an in person Demo Day in November during Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Session 1 - Idea Refinement & Validation

Thursday, 19th February, 2pm-4pm

This session will guide you in developing innovative, scalable, and viable start-up ideas. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, you'll work towards achieving a strong problem-solution fit, identifying your target customer persona, conducting effective market research, and applying validation techniques to ensure your idea is ready for the next stage.

Session 2 - Building Your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) & Testing

Thursday, 5 March 2026, 2pm-4pm

This session explores how to test and validate ideas through rapid experimentation. Participants will learn about different MVP approaches, practical tools for prototyping, and techniques for gathering feedback to refine and strengthen their concepts.

Session 3 - Business Model & Revenue Strategy

Thursday, 19 March 2026, 2pm-4pm

Learn how to design a sustainable and scalable business model using the Business Model Canvas. This session explores scalable vs. non-scalable models, connects pricing and customer validation to MVP results, and builds clarity around how money flows in and out of your venture.

Session 4 - Legal & Intellectual Property

Thursday, 2 April 2026, 2pm-4pm

Gain insights into company formation, directors’ duties, mandatory filings, and compliance requirements. Learn how to protect your intellectual property, safeguard your brand, and build a competitive advantage.

Session 5 - Finance Essentials

Thursday, 16 April 2026, 2pm-4pm

This session will provide a practical overview of financial planning and legal frameworks for start-ups. Learn about budgeting, cash flow management, and essential financial tools to stay on track and address challenges effectively.

Session 6 - Growth & Go-to-Market Strategy

Thursday, 30 April 2026, 2pm-4pm

Discover how to attract, engage, and retain customers through organic, paid, and partnership channels. This session introduces frameworks to track key growth metrics and helps you identify and prioritise scalable systems to drive sustainable business growth.

Session 7 - Investment Landscape & Journey

Thursday, 28 May 2026, 2pm-4pm

Explore the start-up investment landscape and gain clarity on funding options and investor expectations. This session provides an overview of funding stages, the pros and cons of various financing routes, and the associated documentation. You’ll learn how to navigate cap tables, identify potential red flags, and understand team roles and functions critical to securing investment and driving growth.

Session 8 - Networking & Pitching for Demo Day

Thursday, 25 June 2026, 2pm-4pm

This session equips you with the skills to confidently pitch their ventures while mastering effective networking strategies. Designed as essential preparation for the Showcase, it covers:

Developing an effective pitch deck that communicates your vision clearly and persuasively
Preparing a functional MVP or prototype demonstration to showcase real-world traction
Delivering a compelling pitch and understanding what judges and investors look for
Mastering networking skills, including building meaningful connections, maintaining professional relationships, and navigating common challenges
Practical tips to engage with investors and stakeholders, strengthening your ability to convert conversations into opportunities

Attendance at this session is mandatory for participants wishing to be considered for shortlisting to pitch at the Showcase.

Ignite Demo Day 2026

The Demo day offers students and graduates the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and showcase their Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) to a panel of investors and industry stakeholders. Gain valuable feedback, expand your network, and compete for a chance to win up to £5,000 in grant funding. Demo Day date for November 2026 will be confirmed next year.