Start-up Programme Application Information
Eligibility
To apply, you must be:
- University of Warwick student or graduate
- Motivated to attend monthly coaching sessions and workshops
- Determined to start and grow a business in the UK and be able to run your business from the UK
- Applying as an individual or a team with a maximum of five co-founders or members
Criteria:
Applications are assessed against three areas:
- Viability: Is there enough evidence in the application form to show this business idea has the potential to generate revenue.
- Scalability: Is there enough evidence in the application form to show the growth potential of the business.
- Innovation: What evidence demonstrates how this business is differentiating itself in the market.
Application Process and Key Dates
Stage 1: Application submission
Submit your completed online application during the application window.
- Applications open:1 June 2026 12:00pm
- Applications close:1 July 2026 12:00pm
Important: Late applications will not be accepted. If you miss the deadline, you must wait until the next intake.
Stage 2: Shortlisting
All applications are reviewed against the published selection criteria and will be informed whether their application has been shortlisted.
- Review period:1 – 10 July 2026
- Outcome notification: Week of 13 July 2026
Stage 3: 1:1 Evaluation
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 1:1 session with our start-up coach for further evaluation and discussion.
- 1:1 sessions: 20 – 31 July 2026
- Outcome notification: Week of 3 August 2026
Stage 4: Pitch-to-panel
Final shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch to a panel.
- 11 August 2026 (for University of Warwick intake)
- 13 August 2026(for the Shard WBS intake)
You will be asked to submit a pitch deck (template provided) ahead of the session.
Stage 5: Programme Onboarding and Delivery
The panel will make the final decision on which applicants are offered a place on the programme.
All applicants will be notified of the outcome, with feedback provided where applicable.
- Onboarding: 8 September 2026 10 (for University of Warwick Intake) 10 September 2026 (for the Shard WBS intake)
- Programme duration:12 months
Please note: For comprehensive information about the programme structure, please download the Start-up Programme HandbookLink opens in a new window.
What you'll need to submit
To apply, you will need to complete the application form.
The application form will only be open during the application window listed in the Key Dates section above.
Important: We will only proceed with the applications submitted via the official form within the application window. Further materials (e.g. pitch deck) will only be requested from shortlisted applicants at a later stage.
Need further support?
If you have any further questions or you are experiencing any difficulties applying for the Start-up Programme, please utilise our Info Session, FAQs or contact us.