Students from across the University of Kent will be competing in this year’s Business Start-Up Journey (BSUJ) pitching finals and showcase.
The annual event hosted by the University’s ASPIRE (Accelerator Space for Innovation and Responsible Enterprise) brings together students to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. They can win £1,000 to help start or develop their business as well as other prizes and access to investment funds.
Competing this year are students from Kent Business School, the School of Arts, Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, Biology, Sports and Computing.
They will pitch to judges in Sibson Lecture Theatre 2 on Wednesday 25 March. Ideas and businesses range from AR in education, a documentary film, a protein drink, an app for creating successful dates, stock control innovation for small business and a mobile barbers!
This years panel of judges include
- Daniel Rubin, Founder and Chairman of international footwear brand Dune London
- Laura Bounds, Managing Director of Kent Crisps and Kentish Condiments (CHECK)
- Dean Johnson, Managing Director of medi-tech firm Haag Streit UK
- Emmanuel Enemokwu, Founder of the streetwear business, Jehu-cal.
Emay started his business while a student at the university. He graduated in summer after taking part in the BSUJ and undertaking a Self-Employed Placement year. He is now successfully running his business full time.
Many of the students taking part in the contest have been following the BSUJ, a 15-week co-curricular programme run through the University’s Study Plus activities.
Based in ASPIRE, the BSUJ combines interactive workshops and one-to-one advice sessions. It offers students the chance to explore the process of starting a business as well as develop entrepreneurial skills which enhance their employability.
With activities based on both Medway and Canterbury campuses, the BSUJ is available to students at all levels of study from any degree course. It is supported through philanthropic donations from sources including Santander Universities.
Study Plus is open to all students studying degree programmes at Kent. The courses and workshops are free of charge and offer students a chance to broaden their knowledge and gain useful new skills alongside their main studies.
Find out more about ASPIRE and how it can help your business ideas come to life