Discover Enterprise: build skills and explore ideas

Work in teams, develop your leadership skills and learn how to think creatively with Discover Enterprise co-curricular activities.

These skills are valuable for any career path and work well with the support available from the Careers Service.

Everyone is welcome and you do not need to be studying a specific course to get involved. You don’t need to have an idea to share to join in.

You can now also explore enterprise as part of your studies through the SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module.

We also work with staff across the university through the Enterprise Champions programmeHelix and other makerspaces to build prototypes and support new ideas.

If you’re interested in any of the following programmes or have any questions email the Spark team at spark@leeds.ac.uk.

Discover Enterprise programmes

Mini Business Bootcamp

Our half-day bootcamp takes you from a simple idea to pitching your business model.

Open to anyone who wants to try something new. You will work in a team to explore opportunities, test your ideas and present a business solution in a friendly, fast-paced environment.

Bootcamps run throughout the year in different faculties, with examples tailored to your subject and insights from an alumni entrepreneur.

Upcoming

-LUBS Mini-Business Bootcamp, 20 Oct 2026, details coming soon

-Engineering and Physical Sciences Mini Business Bootcamp, 22 October 2026, details coming soon

-Environment and Social Sciences Mini Business Bootcamp, with an environmental focus, 13 November 13-17, bookings open soon

No bootcamp open in your faculty? Register your interest to receive information when bookings open

Fill in this form to register your interest

Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club

Inspired by the Earthshot Prize, this interactive club gives you the space to explore environmental challenges, share ideas and get creative with other students.

Join us once or throughout the year to meet entrepreneurs, develop your ideas and build your entrepreneurial skills. Open to all students. No idea or previous experience needed.

​​​​​​Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Opening Session, Helix, 21 October: find out more and book your space

Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Clean Our Air, Helix, 25 November: find out more and book your space

Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Revive Our Oceans, Helix, 16 December: find out more and book your space

Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Build a Waste-free World, Helix, 27 January: find out more and book your space

Remaining session will be announced in December

Business Simulation Challenge

Test your teamwork and decision-making skills in a business simulation challenge using SimVenture Evolution software.

You will have one week to run a successful virtual company and earn your place in the live finale.

Open to students from all levels and disciplines. The best teams will compete for a share of a cash prize.

Find out more and register for the Business Simulation Challenge before 27 October.

Freelancer Workshops

Short sessions for students in creative subjects who want to explore freelancing or project-based work.

For more information about freelancer workshops, email Matthew Preston: m.preston@leeds.ac.uk.

SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module

You can now also explore enterprise as part of your studies through the SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module. Work on your own idea and take part in Spark activities while earning credits towards your degree. Learn more about the SOUL module.

Experiences and opportunities