The Enterprise Launchpad is a two‑date FREE event taking place in April 2026, designed to bring together students, recent graduates, and regional partners to explore entrepreneurship, collaboration, and freelance career pathways. This event is designed to help you understand what makes a good idea, how to shape it, and how to move forward with confidence. It is a chance to develop new skills, boost your confidence, and meet like‑minded people at the same stage of their journey. If you’re exploring an idea, building a small business, or want to connect with others who share your ambitions, you’ll get a lot from this event. Event Dates.
- Day 1 - 21st April 2026 (9 am - 5pm)
- Day 2 - 22nd April 2026 (4pm - 8pm)
What To Expect From the Enterprise Launchpad.
Enterprise Launchpad is a practical introduction to entrepreneurship. It provides simple tools, supportive guidance and clear steps that help you explore ideas without any pressure or prior experience. During the programme you will learn how to:
- Spot opportunities in everyday problems.
- Explore different types of small businesses, services, side hustles or digital ideas.
- Create a business plan.
- Talk about your ideas clearly and confidently.
- Elevate your business' social presence in 2026.
- Network with others students, graduates & local business owners who are also freelancers and side-hustlers.
Who The Enterprise Launchpad is For.
- University of Chester Students and graduates (up to 2 years).
- Early-stage founders, freelancers, or side‑hustlers.
- Anyone with a business idea looking for guidance, support, and community.
Programme Overview.
Day One - 21st April, 2026. ⏱️9 am - 5pm
📍Venue: Crowne Plaza, Chester A full day focused on building foundations, understanding your users, structuring your business ideas, and developing the confidence to pitch.
- Where to start when you don’t know how to get started with Rebecca Robinson.
- Understanding Your Users and Their Problems with Matt Langford.
- How to Put Together a Business Plan with Sarah Bailey.
- Pitching with Confidence with Cat Williams.
Meet the speakers.
Day Two - 22nd April, 2026 ⏱️4pm - 8pm 📍Venue: Storyhouse, Chester. Day two is all about meeting people, hearing real stories, and building your network.
- Networking with other students, graduates and early-stage business owners.
- A one-hour session with influencer, Omobolaji Ajibare, on elevating your brand’s social media presence
- Panel Q & A session with past venture pitchers and University of Chester alumna who have gone on to start their own business.
Meet the Panellists.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Can I attend only Day 1 or Day 2, or both? Please note: You will need to book onto each day to confirm your attendance. You’re welcome to attend Day 1, Day 2, or both days of the Enterprise Launchpad. Each day offers something different, so attending both will give you the full experience, but there’s no requirement to. Would I need to pay for my meals at the Enterprise Launchpad? No you won't need to pay for your meals at the venue. We will provide enough tea, coffee and Lunch options for all registered attendees - please inform us if you have any dietary requirements, allergies, etc. Is this event only for University of Chester Students & Graduates? No, this event is also open to early-stage business owners in the northwest region looking to take the next steps in their entrepreneurial journey Where is the Enterprise Launchpad's venue? The first day of the launchpad will be taking placing at Crowne Plaza Chester, Trinity St, Chester CH1 2BD. The second day will be holding at Storyhouse Chester, Hunter St, Chester CH1 2AR. Is there a day a dress code for the Enterprise Launchpad? We recommend smart‑casual and comfortable clothing. You don’t need anything formal — just something that feels relaxed but presentable for learning, networking and taking part in activities.
How to Attend.
To join the Enterprise Launchpad, register using the link below. The event is FREE for all current University of Chester students and graduates who completed their studies within the last two years. External participants are also welcome to attend for free.