Eligibility for the Programme
We are looking for genuine graduate entrepreneurs with credible business ideas who are committed to establishing themselves in the UK. At least one member of the founding team (ideally 2-3 members, though we can support up to 5) should be from outside the UK.
We will provide you with investment, support, office accommodation and training through some of the best providers in the UK, as well as help obtaining your graduate entrepreneur visa. We will also help you build your contacts and network and give you the expert help and advice to enable you to succeed with turning your idea into reality.
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Do I have to have an idea to join the Progamme?
Yes, you must have thoroughly researched and developed your idea in order to answer the questions on the application form and to prepare your pitch deck. You do not have to have started your business prior to joining the Programme. You cannot apply with multiple ideas.
What if I've already launched my business?
That's fine too as long as you're willing to meet the terms of the offer, i.e. 10% equity state, relocate to the UK etc.
Do I have to be part of a team to apply?
Yes. Teams are generally more successful and investable. We will consider teams with a minimum of two members and typically expect to see teams of two or three. However, we will be happy with teams up to five. If you want to enter with a larger team, you should contact us before applying to make sure that will be acceptable.
What is your definition of recent graduate?
All team members should have graduated from a recognised programme of study (equivalent to UK bachelors or higher level degree - Contact UK NARIC to find out if you can use your qualification for this visa.) within the last two years at the time of their application. Exceptions to the 2 years may be granted in rare cases and this should be discussed with the organisers before applying.
We welcome applications from overseas students from UK universities as well as those graduating outside of the UK.
Do all members have to be recent graduates?
At least 50% of all team members across the Programme must be recent graduates (by above definition) who are not British citizens and who require a visa to remain for work purposes in the UK. Every team must have at least one member who is not a British citizen and a majority of all team members must be recent graduates. EU citizens are welcome to apply.
Members of teams who join the Programme will usually be co-founders. Co-Founders will be expected to hold significant equity based on the circumstances of the business. All Co-Founders will be required to actively participate in the Programme and the development of the business for the full duration of the programme or the participating company may be penalised or removed from the Programme unless the participation of any individual is deemed by the Provider to harm the continued development of the company and they are released by the company.
Do I have to be part of a team to apply?
Yes. Teams are generally more successful and investable. We will consider teams with a minimum of two members and typically expect to see teams of two or three. However, we will be happy with teams up to five. If you want to enter with a larger team, you should contact us before applying to make sure that will be acceptable.
How many people can be in a team?
Typically teams comprise two to three members. However, we may be able to accommodate larger teams if there is a genuine need, please get in touch to discuss
