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 2025/26 is now open!

University of Manchester students can self-enrol anytime: Enrol on Get Started

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!