Startup Pathway
Transforming a great idea into a real business can be an exciting and rewarding journey.
Through our Startup Pathway, we’ll help you develop the skills, confidence, and support to solve problems, create value, and make your mark. You’ll learn how to turn your concept into a viable, scalable venture with the guidance and network to back you along the way.
Step 1 – Explore
Ignite your inner spark
Discover ideas that excite you, challenge assumptions, and uncover problems worth solving. This is where your curiosity meets opportunity.
Get Started
Learn the basics of turning your ideas into action through our online task-based programme.
Get Pitching
Refine your pitch and get feedback to take your idea further.
Step 2 – Build
From Idea into reality
Turn your spark into something real. With hands-on tools, mentoring, and experimenting, you’ll shape your concept into a viable venture.
Step 3 – Grow
Scale and Thrive
Take your venture to the next stage. Pitch to investors, compete for awards, and unlock the networks and support you need to break through.
Manchester Venture Builder
Build, test, and validate your startup concept with expert guidance and mentorship.
Venture Further
Showcase your startup and gain recognition and funding to take your innovative business further.
Connect – Community & Events
Join our network of changemakers.
Throughout every stage of the pathway, you’ll connect with like-minded students, mentors, and experienced social entrepreneurs. Our events, networking opportunities, and speaker series ensure you’re supported and inspired at every step.
Female Founders Network
Empower your entrepreneurial journey with workshops, events, and peer support.
Startup Spotlight
Hear real startup stories and gain inspiration from MEC alumni and founders.
Co-founder Matchmaking
Meet fellow entrepreneurs, share your skills, and get involved in new ventures.
Support & Resources – Always available
Access guidance whenever you need it.
Alongside the structured pathway, the MEC offers ongoing support to help you at any stage of your entrepreneurial journey
Startup appointments
One-to-one guidance with expert MEC staff to answer questions, review ideas, or provide tailored advice.
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Enterprise Resources Portal
Access templates, guides, expert talks, and tools to help you develop your venture wherever you are in your entrepreneurial journey.
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