Calling all future founders!
#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 current students and recent graduates who have a start-up or start-up idea they want to launch or develop, and 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:
The pitching events will take place at Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough and Writtle (subject to the number of pitches shortlisted from each campus).
Are you ready to pitch? Find out more in the FAQs!
Any ARU student or recent graduate (within the last three years).
A: Yes, but at least one member of the team must be a current ARU student or recent graduate (up to three years).
You can enter by filling in our MS Teams form, 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.
All entries must be received no later than midday on 31 January 2025.
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.
Pitches will take place from Monday 3 March 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed).
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.
You can find out more from the #ThinkBigARU 2025 launch and information session video below.
Email us at [email protected]