Cambridge has a thriving entrepreneurship ecosystem that supports students in developing innovative ideas and turning them into reality. Whether you're interested in starting a business, launching a social venture, or simply building your entrepreneurial mindset, there’s plenty of opportunities to develop your entrepreneurship and leadership skills.
If you're already involved in entrepreneurial activities, use this page and the Skills Glossary to think about which skills you're developing, or evaluate your skills with the Skills Discovery Tool.
Get involved
Cambridge offers numerous pathways into entrepreneurship, from structured programmes to informal networks. Even if you’re not planning to be the next Bill Gates, the skills you develop - from innovation and risk-taking to public speaking and strategic thinking - will serve you well in any career path you choose. Explore the Careers Service's guide to entrepreneurship in Cambridge for a comprehensive directory of resources, or find some ways to get started below.
University entrepreneurship community
IE Cambridge is the University's central entrepreneurship community, offering events, competitions, mentoring, and networking opportunities. They run regular workshops, pitch competitions, and speaker series featuring successful entrepreneurs and industry experts. Participating in their events develops your networking skills and industry knowledge, while pitch competitions build your presentation abilities and confidence in communicating your vision. Working with mentors through their programmes enhances your self-awareness and goal-setting skills. Visit the IE Cambridge website to explore their programmes and upcoming events.
College entrepreneurship programmes
Many Colleges offer their own entrepreneurship initiatives that provide funding, mentoring, and support for student ventures. These programmes develop your project management skills as you learn to plan and execute business ideas, and will give you opportunities to practice public speaking and negotiation skills. Examples include Lucy Enterprise, Trinity Hall Entrepreneurs Network (THEN), and Kings Entrepreneurship Lab. Some of them are open to students across the university. Check your College website to see if they offer something similar.
Entrepreneurship societies
Join societies focused on entrepreneurship and innovation, such as:
- Cambridge University Technology and Enterprise Club run workshops, networking events, and startup showcases.
- Cambridge University Entrepreneurs run start-up competitions and offers resources and networking opportunities.
- Cambridge Consulting Network, 180 Degrees Consulting and iTeams provide consultancy project opportunities working with real businesses and non-profit organisations.
Search the SU societies directory and filter by professional development for entrepreneurship-related societies, or attend the Freshers' Fair to find out what’s on offer.
Social entrepreneurship
If you're interested in ventures with positive social or environmental impact, look for initiatives such as Trinity Hall Catalysts, a hands-on programme open to all students that provides skills and connections for creating meaningful change, or work with the Environmental Consulting Society on green projects such as Sustain-A-Ball, a scheme to reduce the environmental impact of May Balls. These opportunities demonstrate your integrity and ethical orientation, while balancing social impact with business viability enhances your strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
Learning opportunities
Build your skills through self-directed learning, such as the Discovering Entrepreneurship course through UIS training, or explore LinkedIn Learning to choose from hundreds of courses. Find out how to access LinkedIn Learning through your University account.