The Cube – funding, idea challenges and competitions

Discover opportunities for starting your business

The Cube – Business Explore Club

Unlock your entrepreneurial potential
Are you a student or graduate curious about starting your own business or exploring a bright idea? Join our 4-week programme designed just for you! 
Whether you have a business concept in mind or simply want to learn the ropes of entrepreneurship, this is your chance to gain valuable skills and knowledge.
Business Explore Club
 

Why participate?

  • For everyone: Open to those with a business idea and those eager to learn how to start one.
  • Boost your skills: Develop your creative talents and business savvy to enhance your future career opportunities.
  • Be inspired: Collaborate with like-minded peers and discover how to assess the viability of new products or services.

What you'll learn:

  • Weekly interactive workshops:
    • Business modelling: Learn how to structure your idea effectively.
    • Building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP): Turn your concept into a tangible offering.
    • Market research: Identify and understand your target audience.
    • Finding sustomers: Strategies to reach and engage potential clients.
    • Pitching skills: Craft and deliver a compelling pitch.
  • Ongoing pitch development support: Receive guidance to perfect your presentation.

Opportunity to win £1,000!

At the end of the programme, if you have a business idea, you'll have the chance to pitch it for a £1,000 cash prize from Santander Universities UK to kickstart your venture. The winner will be chosen through a peer vote.

Take the leap!

Turn your spark of an idea into a fully developed concept with a roadmap for success. Join the Business Explore Club and start your entrepreneurial journey today!
*Terms and conditions apply regarding the £1,000 prize.
 
 

Weekly workshops (Refreshments provided)

Date/time Location Workshop theme
Thursday 7 November 17.30-19.00 Rolle 116 Ideas / Business Modelling
Thursday 14 November 17.30-19.00 Rolle 116 Market research / Finding your customers
Thursday 21 November 17.30-19.00 Rolle 116 Finalising your business model / Learn how to pitch effectively
Thursday 28 November 17.30-19.00 Rolle 116 Pitching competition
 
 
 

Eligibility

  • You must be a current student or graduate from the University of Plymouth.
  • You must be able to attend all 4 sessions Thursday’s 17.30-19.00.
  • *Overseas students can join the Business Explore Club and pitch their business idea to gain knowledge, experience and receive feedback but cannot access the £1,000 or start a business while on a Student Visa.
Those with a viable business idea can progress to join our Business Launch Club which will be held in February 2025.

Book your place

To book your place please register for The Cube – Business Explore Club on Santander X. The registration form is a standard Santander X form, some questions may not apply to your early stage idea, so please answer Not Applicable if you are unable to answer a question.
Closing date for registrations Wednesday 6 November.
If you have any queries please email thecube@plymouth.ac.uk
 
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