FAQs: How can my university help me in setting up my own business?

At the very least you will be able to get general information on business start-up and local and national contacts by visiting your university careers service. They will also know of any further possibilities, which vary greatly between universities, but which could include:

• Short workshops to help you decide whether self-employment or setting up a business would be right for you.
• Courses on entrepreneurship or the practical side of setting up and running a business.
• Clubs, networks and societies for students and graduates with an interest in business, entrepreneurship and self-employment.
• Contacts and mentoring, sometimes through alumni associations.
• Access to subsidised business premises for recent graduates.
• Projects and subsidies to encourage business start-ups.

University career services are normally available for students after they graduate. If you are not living near you university of study you may be able to use the services of an institution in your locality.