#ThinkBigARU is an exciting opportunity to pitch your business, or business idea, for feedback, support, networks, and other forms of investment.
We are on the lookout for current students and recent graduates who have a start-up or start-up idea they want to launch or develop, and gain experience pitching to real entrepreneurs and business leaders.
All entrants who get to the pitching stage of the competition will be eligible for an exclusive package and will receive:
The pitching events will take place in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough and Writtle (subject to the number of pitches shortlisted from each campus).
Are you ready to pitch? Find out more in the FAQs!
We have partnered with Engineers and Scientists in Business Fellowship (ESBF) to help engineering, science, and biomedical students, and recent graduates, develop their commercial skills and apply them in entrepreneurial ventures. Through ESBF, participants have the opportunity to win up to £3,000 (for 20 or more eligible students or graduates) to support their business.
Any ARU student or recent graduate (within the last three years).
A: Yes, but at least one member of the team must be a current ARU student or recent graduate (up to three years).
Fill in our MS Teams form, which includes a section to provide a link to your one-minute video pitch.
You must clearly state the problem or customer need, your proposed solution, and your vision for success.
All entries must be received no later than midday on 30 January 2026.
Notifications to entrants will be sent out by 5pm on Monday 16 February 2026. Successful entrants will be invited to attend a bootcamp-style event to help prepare for pitching.
Pitches will take place from Monday 9 March 2026 to Friday 20 March 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed).
Investment is not guaranteed. However, if you are closing an investment round or a good match for the investors, you could be in with a chance to receive funding to take your idea to the next level.
Additionally, other support from Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs), Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) and specialist advisers will be available to help you take the next step.
Feedback on your pitch will be provided and you may then have the opportunity to re-pitch at a future event.
The following degrees are eligible but not limited to:
Please contact us to double-check your eligibility for the fund.
You can find out more from the #ThinkBigARU launch and Q&A videos below.
Email us at [email protected]