Graduates from Â鶹ƵµÀ Leicester have taken the first step on the path to business success with Crucible, DMU’s bespoke programme for entrepreneurial alumni.
Seri Ismail, 23, is launching a luxury fashion website
Participants receive a package of business mentoring, advice and support at DMU’s Innovation Centre, where they will be supported in turning their ideas into reality all within eight months.
Now in its fourth year, the Crucible programme at DMU has generated some real success stories, with a number of our alumni receiving recognition in local and national media for their achievements.
Some have gone on to win national awards while others have received investment up to £150,000.
Posie Upshall, 23, is developing an ethical and sustainable lingerie brand
This year’s Crucible cohort of 10 graduates were each chosen for the programme after pitching their business idea to a panel of judges. A shortlist was drawn up and the eventual Crucible team chosen after interviews.
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While their ideas are wildly different – including launching a lingerie brand, organic temporary tattoos, running a theatre company and a patented electricity supply system – they will all learn the basics of running and building a brand, intellectual property, marketing and cash flow at regular masterclasses, as well as getting support on their business journey.
Oliver Shepherd, 22, is developing a sports app
Business mentor Percy Emmett said: “We have people at different stages of the business journey – some are already trading, some are in the very early stages of thinking about who their audience is and what form their business will take.
“We’ve got some great ideas again this year and I’m looking forward to working with them all and supporting them on their entrepreneurial journeys.”
As part of the Crucible package, each graduate is given free shared office space at The Innovation Centre, which runs a co-working café and regular free business sessions for start-ups; mentoring, training workshops and access to funding to support their business. Any student, staff or alumni interested in developing their entrepreneurial experiences and skills are encouraged to use the cafe, working alongside local freelancers and business owners who work from the space each day.
Anita Obeng-Darko , 22, is developing an online platform for the beauty and events field
Previous Crucible participants include pyrotechnic artist Marcus Dove, whose work has been featured in The Saatchi Gallery and Elissa Grainger, named ASOS Designer of the Year.
Lam Thai is working on an electricity patent business
Sarah Shepherd, 23, is setting up a contemporary ceramics homewares business
Kirstie Johnson has created Ten 29 Theatre Collective with Ross Thomson
Sarah Jane Charlton, 22, is creating a laser cut and 3D print homeware collection
Asimina Tsakona, 30, is launching an innovative furniture design company
Posted on Wednesday 17 January 2018