At Bournemouth University, we believe university is more than a degree - it’s a launchpad for your future.
Dream Big: The Start Up Lab is our flagship initiative that helps students think creatively, act entrepreneurially, and develop the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Whether students want to start a business, lead innovation in an organisation, or stand out in a competitive job market - this is where it begins.
What is Dream Big: The Start Up Lab?
A dynamic day and follow up of workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities that empowers students to:
Turn ideas into action
Build confidence and resilience
Develop entrepreneurial and employability skills
Collaborate with peers, mentors, and industry
Connect with start-up mentors, investors, and like-minded students.
From ideation sessions to pitching projects, students gain hands-on experience that complements their academic studies - while building meaningful connections that can shape their future.
Work alongside entrepreneurs. Pitch to start up mentors. Build your network from day one.
Connected to industry. Designed for the real world.
Working closely with industry partners is a key priority at Bournemouth University, supporting graduate outcomes and ensuring students are prepared for life after university.
Through Dream Big: The Start Up Lab, students:
Engage directly with entrepreneurs & start-up mentors
Work on real-world challenges set by industry partners
Gain insight into what employers value
Build networks that open doors to future opportunities
This connection ensures students are not just learning - they are developing world-ready skills that employers actively seek.
Developing world-ready skills for every career path
Today’s career landscape is diverse. Some graduates follow linear career paths, others pursue portfolio careers, freelance work, or start their own ventures in the growing gig economy.
Dream Big: The Start Up Lab equips students with the capabilities to thrive in all paths, including:
Adaptability and resilience in changing environments
Commercial awareness and opportunity spotting
Confidence in communication, networking, and self-promotion
Creative problem-solving and innovation
Ownership, initiative, and self-leadership
It’s not just what students know - it’s who they meet, how they think, and the experiences they take with them.
Get involved
Whether you’re a future student, a parent, or an employer, there are many ways to engage with Dream Big: The Start Up Lab.
