Get Started

Got an idea? Let's start making it happen.

Get Started helps you take the first steps towards turning your idea into reality. 🚀 Through practical challenges, you'll test your idea, build your confidence and develop the skills to take it forward. No business experience needed. Just bring your idea.

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

Register interest here

Get Started helps you take your early-stage idea 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.

Don't yet have an idea? Join Ideas Unlocked to generate one.

How Get Started Will Help You Succeed 
  • Got an idea but not sure where to start? Follow a clear, step-by-step programme that fits around your studies, work and other commitments.
  • Wondering if your idea has potential? Test your assumptions, explore your market and discover whether your idea could take flight.
  • Ready to build your skills? Gain practical tools and entrepreneurial skills you can use in your startup, freelancing journey and future career.
  • Want to take your idea further? Build evidence of your idea, get valuable feedback and connect with MEC's network to explore your next steps.
What You’ll Gain 
  • Turn your idea into a tangible concept.
  • Test its potential and identify your next steps.
  • Build entrepreneurial skills, confidence and resilience.
  • Create a portfolio and pitch deck to showcase your idea and progress.
Designed For You 
  • Self-paced online programme with set start and completion dates, designed to fit around your studies or work.
  • Bite-sized challenges, practical toolkits and exclusive MEC resources.
  • Designed for anyone with an idea they're ready to explore.
  • Open to ideas for startups, freelancing, side hustles, social enterprises and research-led ventures.

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

Have an idea? Get Started and see where it takes you! 🚀