#ThinkBigARU pitching competition

Calling all future founders! #ThinkBigARU pitching competition
#ThinkBigARU is an exciting opportunity to pitch your business, or business idea, for feedback, support, networks, and other forms of investment.

We are on the lookout for student and graduates who have a start-up or start-up idea they want to launch or develop. The competition is open to all students and recent graduates (up to three years) to gain experience pitching to real entrepreneurs and business leaders.

All entrants who get to the pitching stage of the competition will be eligible for an exclusive package and will receive:

  • use of a dedicated co-working space on ARU's Cambridge campus for six months
  • tailored mentoring and guidance through our Entrepreneurs in Residence and expert panels
  • access to an exclusive network of entrepreneurs across the UK
  • 1-1 support from a legal advisor to help launch
  • membership of the ARU Entrepreneurs' Community – a vibrant ecosystem of like-minded individuals
  • chance to feature on the ARU Inside AREA news platform

The pitching events will take place at Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough and Writtle.

Are you ready to pitch? Find out more in the FAQs!

FAQs

Who can enter the pitching competition?

Any ARU student or recent graduate (within the last three years).

Can non-ARU students enter?

A: Yes, but at least one member of the team must be a current ARU student or recent graduate (up to three years).

How do I enter?

You can enter by filling in our MS Teams form (link TBC), which includes a section to provide a link to your one-minute video pitch. You must clearly state the problem or customer need, your proposed solution, and your vision for success.

What is the deadline for entries?

All entries must be received no later than midday on 31 January 2025.

When will I find out if I have been selected to pitch?

Notifications to entrants will be sent out by 17 February 2025. Successful entrants will be invited to attend a bootcamp style event to help prepare for pitching.

When and where will the pitches take place?

Pitches will take place from Monday 3 March 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed).

Will I be guaranteed investment?

Investment is not guaranteed. However, if you are closing an investment round or a good match for the investors, you could be in with a chance to receive funding to take your idea to the next level.

Additionally, other support from Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs), Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) and specialist advisers will be available to help you take the next step.

Feedback on your pitch will be provided and you may then have the opportunity to re-pitch at a future event.

Contact us

Email us at [email protected]