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Start your entrepreneur journey

Pioneer 1.0 Programme

The Pioneer programme is the perfect starting point into entrepreneurship, providing you with the insights, knowledge and a practice ground to succeed with your future business, as well as learn vital skills to boost your career.

Note: Applications for the current Pioneer programme are now open. Once you have read the following information, please use the link below to the online application form.

About the programme

Pioneer 1.0 has three key phases throughout the academic year, focused on developing your awareness of being an entrepreneur, starting a business and putting your skills into practice.

  • This programme is designed to help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to successfully start a business.
  • We're delighted to welcome a range of entrepreneurs and business experts to the programme to share their startup journeys and provide guidance along the way.
  • Learn new skills, connect and work with like-minded Pioneer participants, and get the right foundation for your entrepreneur journey.
  • Pioneer 1.0 is a hybrid programme with some aspects taking place in person and others live online. 

When is Pioneer 1.0?

The Pioneer programme runs from November to June with three key phases to enhance your entrepreneurship awareness, accelerate your skills, and apply what you learn on the programme.

Term one: Enhance your Awareness

  • Apply for your place on the programme - use the online application form link below.
  • If successful, you will take part in a series of panel discussions with a range of awesome entrepreneurs on the following dates:
    • Panel session one: Thursday 7 November 2024, 3.30-5pm, in-person at Malet Street
    • Panel session two: Tuesday 19 November 2024, 4-5.30pm, in-person at Malet Street
    • Panel session three: Friday 6 December 2024, 4-5.30pm, online.
  • Gain valuable insights into the paths others have taken to succeed with their businesses.
  • Understand their motivations, journeys and advice on getting started in business.

Term two: Accelerate your Skills

Term dates (January - March 2025): 11 January (in person), 30 January (online), 11 February (online), 27 February (online), 11 March (online) 27 March (online).

  • Fortnightly sessions delivered by entrepreneurs designed to equip early-stage entrepreneurs and startup enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools necessary to launch your business.
  • Support to work on, and come up with, a strategy to execute your business idea.
  • By the end of the term, you will have compiled a legal, financial and marketing strategy for your business idea.

Term three: Apply your Learning

Term dates to be confirmed.

  • This is your opportunity to put your learning into practice for your own idea.
  • Prepare a pitch and submit your application to be a Pioneer finalist, for the chance to take part in the Pioneer Final Event - Live Pitch to a panel of experts.

Apply for Pioneer 1.0