If you want to set up your own business you'll need an original idea, hard work, determination and expert advice.
The university has a history of enterprising students and alumni developing successful businesses in a variety of sectors. Find out what support is available to you and get started.
The University of Nottingham's Ingenuity Lab, part of the The Haydn Green Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (HGI), helps undergraduates and postgraduates learn about enterprise and build their entrepreneurial skills.
If you have an interest in business, whether it’s a commercial venture or a social enterprise, the Ingenuity Lab is there to support you to create products and services that are not only fit for purpose, but also offer a different perspective and approach.
Visit the Ingenuity Lab website
Weekly sessions, peer reviews, and monthly meetings with other members kept me focused and accountable. The Lab also connected me with advisors in legal, finance, and business planning.
Entrepreneur First (EF)Graduate scheme for computer science and engineering students and graduates
HMRC self-employment e-learning resourcePractical advice on financial issues (taxation, NI, VAT, etc.)
The Prince's TrustBusiness support and low-interest loans for 18-30 year olds
Shell LiveWIRESupporting 16-30 year olds start and develop their own business
Social enterprises are businesses set up to tackle a social and/or environmental need. The profits are then used to further the social and environmental goals of the business. Social enterprises operate across a wide range of industries and sectors.
For more information and support look at the Social Enterprise Coalition website and read their guide on starting a social enterprise
The British Franchise Association (BFA)Learn about franchising and attend seminars covering how to buy one
Contractor UKGraduate guide to contracting work
EverywomanBusiness support for female entrepreneurs
Gov.ukGovernment information on starting your own business, with practical advice
National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA)Investment for young businesses to encourage development
Nottingham Business VentureTraining scholarships and financial support
ProwessSupporting women to start and develop their own business
The Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)Information on setting up businesses for blind or partially sighted people
University of NottinghamPortland Building, Level DUniversity Park Nottingham, NG7 2RD
email: careers-team@nottingham.ac.uk