Every business starts with an idea, but how do you turn that idea into something real? At the University of Liverpool, our Design Your Future programme gives you the time, space, and expert support to do exactly that.
This flagship enterprise programme is designed for students and graduates who want to explore their entrepreneurial potential in a supportive environment. Whether you already have a business concept, are curious about freelancing, or simply want to learn the fundamentals of innovation, Design Your Future helps you move from early-stage ideas to actionable plans.
Over 12 weeks, you’ll work with industry professionals, fellow entrepreneurs, and our Entrepreneurship & Start-Up Team to transform your idea into a viable business, ready to pitch. The programme is structured to mirror real-world entrepreneurial journeys, so each week builds on the last, gradually equipping you with the tools and confidence to test, refine, and grow.
This isn’t theory for theory’s sake. It’s practical, hands-on, and future-focused. You’ll learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, build essential networks, and discover how AI tools can help you research, test, and grow your business faster. Many students tell us that the connections they make on the programme — with peers, mentors, and industry experts — are just as valuable as the skills they develop.
What you’ll experience
- 12 weekly sessions from November to February, giving you continuity and space to grow your ideas step by step.
- A blend of online and in-person learning, with 4 compulsory labs at the Sir Peter Rigby Centre for Enterprise to apply what you’ve learned in real-time.
- Practical sessions covering everything from design thinking and customer discovery to finance, intellectual property, and business planning.
- AI-powered workshops to help you validate your idea, build a brand, and accelerate your marketing with cutting-edge tools.
- A final pitch lab where you’ll refine your business plan, practice your delivery, and present your idea to a panel.
These sessions are designed to be interactive, collaborative, and confidence-building. You won’t just sit and listen — you’ll test, create, and learn by doing.
The Pitching Competition
At the end of the programme, shortlisted participants will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges. This competition is both a milestone and a launchpad, with cash prizes to help you take your venture to the next stage:
- 🥇 1st Prize: £5,000
- 🥈 2nd Prize: £2,000
- 🥉 3rd Prize: £1,000
Beyond the prize money, you’ll also have the opportunity to access funding to register your business with Companies House and apply for seed funding. Many past participants have used this moment to secure early investment, find partners, and step confidently into the start-up world.
Who can apply?
Design Your Future is open to all University of Liverpool students and recent graduates (up to 2 years). You don’t need a finished business plan or a fully formed idea — just the drive to learn, create, and explore the possibilities.
We welcome participants from every subject area. Whether you’re an engineer with a product idea, a creative with a concept to share, or a scientist with research that could have impact, this programme is designed to support you.
Key Dates
- Applications open: 15 September 2025
- Deadline to apply: 26 October 2025
- Programme starts: 12 November 2025
Sessions take place every Wednesday. Online sessions run 3–4pm, and in-person sessions run 3–5pm at the Sir Peter Rigby Centre for Enterprise.
Apply now
To apply, simply upload your cover letter via Handshake and share:
- Your idea (or the area you’d like to explore)
- Why you want to take part
- How you’ll commit to making the most of the 12-week programme
There are only 50 spaces available, so apply early to avoid missing out.
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