From Early Stage to Entrepreneurial Excellence: Chelmsford’s Startup Scene Build Business Foundations

ARU Launches Free Startup Socials to Support Essex Entrepreneurs. Hosted at Arise Innovation Hub

Arise Innovation Hub is delighted to host and proud to be involved in a dynamic new initiative supporting local entrepreneurship in Essex. Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has launched a series of free “Startup Social”. Informal networking events and talks designed to bring together student entrepreneurs, freelancers, and early-stage business founders from across the region. 

Funded by the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB), the Startup Social aim to foster a vibrant community of innovators by offering expert talks, peer-to-peer support, and plenty of pizza. These monthly sessions will be held at the Arise Innovation Hub in Chelmsford, providing a welcoming space for idea-sharing, collaboration, and inspiration.

The programme is part of ARU’s wider civic mission to drive local economic growth and innovation. With light-touch sessions and expert input, Startup Socials are designed to be accessible and engaging for anyone exploring new business ideas or looking to grow their venture.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting this exciting new series at Arise,” said Beverley Vaughan, Director of Arise Innovation Hubs. “Startup Socials are a fantastic way to connect people with ideas, energy, and ambition. We’re proud to play a role in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs in Essex.”

Gary Packham, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at ARU, added: “We are delighted to be launching a speaker and networking series that celebrates and supports the entrepreneurial ecosystem in North Essex. We see a lot of high potential startups in the region. The support from NEEB will bring together our entrepreneurial network to help supercharge new businesses.”

The first Startup Social will take place on Wednesday 22nd October from 12:30–2pm, with monthly sessions continuing into 2026. The first guest speaker is Jamille Sammour, co-founder of 5Y Technology, one of the UK’s fastest-growing data and AI startups. Jamille will share his founder journey and explore how innovation in AI and data is reshaping the way businesses grow.

Whether you're a startup founder, freelancer, solopreneur, or simply curious about entrepreneurship, you're welcome to join.

Reserve your spot now: Startup Socials