It’s no secret that many businesses have been impacted by the challenges caused by COVID-19, with the economy in recession and business leaders needing to adapt new work styles, technologies and strategies. But with these challenges come new opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, looking to find solutions and help change the world with their innovative business ideas. That is why Henley Centre for Entrepreneurship (HCfE), the University of Reading’s hub for start-up businesses, is expanding the Business Idea and Start-Up Clinic.
The Clinic’s aim is to help students and alumni who have a business idea or a start-up business take it to the next level. If you have an idea for a business, or have recently started a new business, signing up for an appointment at the Clinic will give you the chance to discuss your idea and get one-to-one advice from a business expert. The appointment is completely free and in half an hour will cover what you need such as the best way to commercialise your idea, as well as provide guidance on how to get involved with other HCfE initiatives like IDEAFEST and even pitch to the Henley Business Angels.
The Clinic is open to all current students or alumni of Henley Business School and the University of Reading, worldwide. The business clinic is held on Wednesdays. To book an appointment, contact Alex Baker and provide the following:
- A full CV or biography/LinkedIn profile, outlining your education and employment experience
- A summary of your business idea/newly formed business (max. 250 – 500 words)
- A list of three or four questions that you would like answered
Over 200 students and alumni have taken advantage of the Clinic to date and have delighted in the support and advice they have received. This is what some students and alumni had to say:
“The Clinic gave me confidence on approaching potential customers in order to sell my business idea before deciding on more resource investments.” Charles Domician, Agricultural, Environmental and Food Economics PhD student
“Jurek provided professional and wise advice for my business plan. He is always encouraging everyone to chase their business dream. Every time I wish the Clinic appointment could be longer; it is very helpful for my start-up business.” Danhua Wu, MA Education in Leadership alumni
“I got an unexpected idea from Jurek which helped me apply with my business plan and made my team win the IDEAFEST Competition.” Sirada Chokwareeporn, MSc Entrepreneurship in Leadership alumni
“I worked on UNIK until my master’s degree and studied at the University of Reading. I’m very grateful for the HCfE team, especially Jurek, who has supported me a lot on the completion of my business plan and helped me to achieve it practically.” Hetianbo Chen, alumni and founder of UNIK
For more information read the Business Idea and Start-Up Clinic page on the Henley Centre for entrepreneurship website.