Get Started

Turn Ideas into Action: Explore Problems, Test Solutions, and Build Confidence

Join MEC’s structured online programme that transforms sparks of inspiration into validated concepts ready for future development.

Get Started 2026/27 will open soon for UoM students and recent graduates.

Register interest here

Already explored an idea through Ideas Unlocked? Get Started helps you take it further. Our online, flexible programme gives you the tools, knowledge and confidence to develop your idea at your own pace. From here, you can move into one of MECs four Founder Pathways — Freelancer, Social Impact, Researcher or Startup, depending on where your idea is heading.

How Get Started Will Help You Succeed 
  • Not sure where to begin? Get Started offers a structured, step-by-step route you can fit around studies, work, or other commitments, taking you from an idea to a tangible output. 
  • Unsure if your idea has potential? Explore problems worth solving, test assumptions, and validate solutions through practical, real-world frameworks.
  • Need flexible skills? Gain toolkits and strategies that apply to startups, freelancing, research ventures, and side hustles - plus your university work and future career. 
  • Looking to move forward? Create a portfolio and pitch deck to showcase your progress, receive feedback and connect with MEC’s network to feed into future development and more advanced MEC programmes.
What You’ll Gain 
  • Turn early ideas into tangible concepts.
  • Develop entrepreneurial confidence and resilience. 
  • Learn to communicate clearly and articulate your ideas. 
  • Build a portfolio and pitch deck ready for future opportunities.
Designed For You 
  • Self-paced online format alongside your studies or work. 
  • Practical toolkits and exclusive MEC resources. 
  • Join with or without an idea. 
  • Suitable for freelancers, startups, social enterprises and research-led concepts. 

Get Started fast-tracks your entrepreneurial journey - empowering you to find clarity and build with confidence.

This experience has been incredibly rewarding – from identifying real-world problems to exploring strategic solutions. Special thanks to the MEC team for their encouraging feedback and support. This recognition means a lot and motivates me to keep building and refining ideas that make a difference.

Ling-Chih / Alliance Manchester Business School student

Ready to explore your entrepreneurial potential? Sign up now to join Get Started online and turn your ideas into action!