Get Freelancing

Freelancing means using your skills to work on paid projects for clients, giving you flexibility, real-world experience, and a way to earn while you study or after you graduate

Thinking about freelancing but don’t know where to start?

Our programme helps students and recent graduates turn ideas into paid work while giving practical skills and expert support.

Get the Benefits

• Gain hands-on experience through workshops and real-world exercises that give you a competitive edge
• Receive personalised guidance from industry professionals and experienced freelancers
• Join a supportive community of like-minded students and graduates to network, collaborate, and share insights
• Hear inspiring success stories from Manchester’s best freelancers who have turned their passions into thriving careers
• Develop practical freelancing skills – from setting up your business to managing clients and projects
• Access up to £1000 funding to kickstart your freelance journey

Get Involved?

Get Freelancing is your fast-track to launching and growing a successful freelance career. Through four practical workshops, you’ll gain hands-on experience, insider knowledge, and actionable strategies to help you thrive.

 

Workshops

Take part in 4 interactive, in-person workshops covering essential skills:

Workshop 1: Get Set Up
April 27th 1-4pm, University Place

• Turning your skills and ideas into a real freelance business
• Setting up systems and processes to start earning quickly

Workshop 2: Get Seen
May 5th 1-4pm, University Place

• Building a personal brand that stands out
• Finding and connecting with the clients you want to work with

Workshop 3: Get Paid
May 11th 1-4pm, University Place

• Charging what you’re worth and negotiating with confidence
• Managing client projects efficiently and professionally

Workshop 4: Get AI Ready
May 18th 1-4pm, University Place

• Leveraging AI tools to save time and boost productivity
• Using technology to gain a competitive edge in freelancing

 

What you'll get

Access to Get Freelancing Perks

Get Freelancing opportunities and resources

• Recommended reading: The Freelance Bible by Alison Grade - all Get Freelancing participants gain a free copy of the book
• Exclusive hoodie: Everyone who completes the programme gets a free Get Freelancing hoodie

 

• Get Certified: You’ll gain a certificate of completion to recognise your achievement and showcase your skills. The opportunity to take your freelance business further, including eligibility to enter the Venture Further Awards.
• Get Connected: You’ll also take part in the Community Mixer – an inclusive networking event open to students from across the University and all backgrounds. Meet fellow freelancers, connect with students looking for support on projects, and build your network within the wider freelance community.

If you are formally registered as self-employed, you can also access MEC's Software Perks, worth £150k+.

 

 

Don’t wait to take the next step in your freelance journey. Join our workshops, connect with industry professionals, and gain the tools, insights, and funding to kickstart your career with confidence.

Get Freelancing now and take the first step towards your freelance future. Apply here

 

 

Hear from our 2025/26 Cohorts: