Discover Enterprise: build skills and explore ideas
Work with others, develop your leadership skills and build your creative thinking through our Discover Enterprise co-curricular activities.
Everyone is welcome to get involved, whatever you’re studying. You don’t need to have an idea of your own to take part. You can also explore enterprise as part of your studies through the SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module.
We work with staff across the university through the Enterprise Champions programme, Helix and other makerspaces to help you develop prototypes and bring new ideas to life.
These skills are valuable for any career path and work well with other support offered by the Careers Service.
Email the Spark team at spark@leeds.ac.uk if you have any questions.
Discover Enterprise programmes
Mini Business Bootcamp
Our half-day bootcamp takes you from a simple idea to pitching your business model.
They’re 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 Mini Bootcamps
- Leeds University Business School: 20 Oct 2026, 1pm – 5pm (Book your place).
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences: 23 October 2026, 1pm – 5pm (Book your place).
- Faculty of Environment and Social Sciences (with environment focus): 13 November 2026, 1pm – 5pm (Book your place).
No bootcamp open in your faculty? Complete the form to register your interest and receive information on bootcamps for your faculty.
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. It’s open to all students with no idea or previous experience needed.
Upcoming sessions
- Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Opening Session, Helix, 21 October
- Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Clean Our Air, Helix, 25 November
- Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Revive Our Oceans, Helix, 16 December
- Earthshot Entrepreneurs Club, Build a Waste-free World, Helix, 27 January
Remaining sessions 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.
It’s 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
Freelancer Workshops are short sessions for students in creative subjects who want to explore freelancing or project-based work.
To find out more and register your interest, email Matthew Preston: m.preston@leeds.ac.uk.
SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module
You can now explore enterprise as part of your studies through the SOUL Enterprise Start-Up Project module.
It’s a chance to work on your own ideas and take part in Spark activities, while earning credits towards your degree.
Find out more about the SOUL Enterprise Start-up Project module.