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What is Ideas Lab? 

Ideas Lab is a two-part, entry level programme open to all students and recent graduates. Through interactive activities, creative exploration and reflection, you’ll discover your strengths, explore what matters to you and develop the confidence and skills to turn ideas into action. 

Why should I take part? 

Being entrepreneurial can benefit you whatever path you take in life.  

Whether you have a business idea, want to make a difference, or are simply curious about what you could do next, Ideas Lab is a great place to start. 

Ideas Lab is also a great starting point if you’re considering applying for our entrepreneurship funding opportunities, including Bright Ideas and Startup Sussex. You’ll have the chance to meet the Entrepreneurship Team and hear from Sussex alumni who have continued to explore entrepreneurship after Sussex, including Pelin: 

“Sussex played such an important role in my entrepreneurial journey, so it’s really special to come back and share my experience with students who are just starting theirs.” (Pelin, Marketing and Management MSc). 

You don’t need any prior experience or a business idea. Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore! 

What will happen in the sessions? 

In the first session, we’ll explore what sparks your curiosity, and how your strengths and interests could help you create opportunities for yourself and others. Through engaging activities, reflection and inspiring examples, you'll explore what drives you, uncover your unique strengths and develop greater confidence in your ability to turn ideas into action.You'll also discover that entrepreneurshipisn'tjust about starting a business.It's about creativity,initiative and finding ways to create positive change in the areas that matter most to you. 

In the second session, we’ll help you move from inspiration to action. Through practical activities and collaborative exercises, you'll explore the challenges that matter to you, generate ideas linked to your strengths and interests, and discover ways to turn early-stage concepts into meaningful opportunities.  

How do I sign up? 

Book your place onto our two Ideas Lab sessions via CareerHub: 

Ideas Lab Session 1:Start With You - Discover your strengths, motivations and entrepreneurial potential 

Ideas Lab Session 2: Ideas Into Action - Generate and explore ideas that matter 

About Entrepreneurship at Sussex  

Got a business or social impact idea you’d like to bring to life? Or just want to explore your entrepreneurial side? We can help you to build your mindset and learn new skills that will help you through the early stages of developing an idea, all the way through to launching and scaling. 

The University’s 2026-27 support and funding programme launches in autumn 2026 and includes access to one-to-ones, workshops and competitions. Learn more about Entrepreneurship at Sussex.