Business start-ups

Thinking about starting a business or freelancing? Need help shaping your business idea?

Our Solent Start-Ups team provides current students and recent graduates with
one-to-one support, workshops, and funding* to help you launch or grow your venture.

No matter what stage you're at in your thinking, whether just exploring ideas or ready to launch, we’re ready to support you.

*Subject to T&Cs

Contact the Solent Start-Ups team for an informal chat - startups@solent.ac.uk or drop in and see us in JM109 (in Solent Creatives, the Spark).

One-to-one business support

Do you have a business idea but would like some help shaping that idea and what you need to do?
Are you already running a business but need some help and advice? Book in for a one-to-one guidance session with our independent business adviser from Barclays Eagle Labs.

Appointments are available on campus on a Wednesday. You can book an appointment via the Solent Careers portal:
Solent Careers

Funding to kickstart your business or freelance career

If you need funding to bring your business idea to life or to dive into freelancing, consider applying for our Solent Start-Ups fund! Current students and recent graduates (within the past year) could receive a grant to kickstart your idea. Click here for more info.

Information for international students

Student visa students are not permitted to be self-employed or engaged in business activity, which includes setting up a business, being employed for a company in which you hold shares of 10% or more or holding a statutory role, such as a director.

International students can attend our workshops and events but cannot receive funding or prizes. However, you can meet with the team to learn more about your options. Please email startups@solent.ac.uk to book an appointment.