Graduates
Interested in starting or growing a business? Stay on this page
Launchpad FUEL programme
STARTUP: support, workshops, mentors, space and funding
Our Intensive 7-Week Graduate Start-Up Programme offers you the experience of expert-led workshops, mentoring and support, getting you ready to pitch for up to a share of £30k grant funding.
The programme is specifically for Teesside University students, graduates and staff who are in the first stages of starting a business.
This interactive, industry-led programme brings together the best Tees Valley-based business mentors and coaches to deliver each syllabus topic and takes you through the stages of starting a business.
At the end of the programme you benefit from:
- an opportunity for each business founder to pitch to the trustees for grant funding
- dedicated office space for six months at Teesside Launchpad (if needed)
- expert mentoring and coaching
- business workshops and networking opportunities.
How to apply
- Create a two-minute pitch video and a 250-word synopsis telling us what your business idea is and why you think the FUEL programme and funding will help you.
- Upload your video to YouTube and send us your link
- Deadline for applications 14th July 2024
- Start date of programme 29th July 2024
- End date of programme 12th September 2024
Applications need to be sent to l.dixon@tees.ac.uk.
Pitch video must haves:
- an outline of your business idea
- what the problem you are solving is and for whom
- how the FUEL funding would help your business
- what you would spend the grant funding on.
Good luck!
Business support and incubation
Since 2015, our mission has been to create an entrepreneurial community to support our University’s most promising start-ups and founders, investing our time and resources to help them succeed.
From superb spaces, mentorship, expert-led workshops and networking events, Launchpad participants enjoy access to outstanding services and programmes, led by dedicated professionals.
We offer:
- subsidised starter offices at £120 per month (includes all utilities, high speed WiFi) for up to 12 months
- access to reduced rate follow-on space
- access to the University Library and gym, access to car park (chargeable)
- workshops and mentoring
- opportunities to network with the Launchpad and co-working community.
Criteria for an office:
- have at least one Teesside University graduate in your team
- be in initial stages of starting up / recently registered (under six months old)
- be able to show growth plan
- have at least two founders in your team
- willing to contribute to the community and attend events and workshops specifically for Launchpad incubated businesses
- to be subject to regular business reviews
- be revenue generating.
POWERUP: indie games accelerator
Start Your own Indie Games Studio with Powerup: Subsidised studio space, mentoring & more!
Are you thinking about starting your own Indie Games Studio?
At Powerup, we understand the challenges that aspiring studio owners face. That's why we're excited to introduce an unparalleled opportunity for you to bring your creative vision to life with a wraparound support programme for our graduates.
What is Powerup? Powerup is a unique initiative designed to empower you with everything you need to start your own studio. Unlike any other university program, we offer a comprehensive support system that includes subsidised studio space, personalised mentoring, software grants, high spec hardware loan and industry support.
Subsidised Studio Space: we provide access to fully equipped studio spaces at a subsidised rate that makes it affordable for you to focus on your creative work without the financial burden. You will get dedicated studio space in the Launchpad Incubator at a reduced rate inclusive of utilities, broadband internet access and business rates for a period of twelve months from the date of the agreement.
Mentoring: Benefit from one-on-one mentoring sessions with our carefully selected industry experts. Our mentors are here to guide you through every step of your journey, providing invaluable insights and advice to help your studio succeed.
Workshop programme: Studios will be required to attend a minimum of six½ day industry led skills development workshops during the duration of the programme.
Industry Support: Tap into our network of industry professionals and resources. Whether you need help with business development, marketing, or technical skills, we can help.
Attendance at a key conference: Travel, accommodation, and coaching support at Develop Conference Brighton.
Proven Success: Join the ranks of successful teams who have already benefited from our program. Our first cohort has seen remarkable achievements, with several teams making significant strides in the industry.
Our purpose-built accelerator programme for early-stage independent video games studios offers:
- six studios per cycle
- 12-seater studio per team
- PCs and software licences
- PR and event support
- industry-led workshops
- industry mentors
- publisher pitching
We are looking for three new teams to start in September 2024
How to apply:
Written application
- Introduce team and all skillsets
- State reason why they want to set up a studio.
- Clearly outline the studio’s aim and purpose (how they aim to make revenue), IP/studio for hire etc.
- Evidence of market research in their chosen genre or service area.
- How they will stand out in a crowded marketplace.
2 minute pitch
- A 2-minute pitch to impress the panel showing initial game ideas, a competent team leader and well-rounded team.
- Upload to YouTube and submit to contact us
Good luck!
