Are you eligible?

Are You Eligible for BSEEN?

Check you’re able to join the programme before applying.

Driven & Entrepreneurial

You’re a highly motivated individual or team with a viable, well-research business idea who is ready to take the next step. You’re committed to registering your business at the start of the programme and are raring to go.

Student or Recent Graduate

You’re currently studying at one of the four universities who run BSEEN: Aston University, Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham and Newman University. You can also be a recent graduate (up to 5 years after you finished your studies of any level) from these or any other UK university.

Birmingham-based

You have a residential address in the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP area, and are going to register your business here as well.

Complete the BSEEN eligibility checker here Email us if you’re not sure

*Please note unfortunately we are unable to support retail businesses under ERDF funding.

**Please note, international students are not able to set up a business due to VISA restrictions. International graduates from Aston University and Birmingham City University will need to apply for the Startup Visa if they wish to be accepted onto the programme, and should contact their own university separately.

*** Your business must not have already started trading.

Once a business is registered the support provided by BSEEN is classed as De Minimis Aid under EC Regulation 1998/2006. (All enterprises in the EU are eligible to receive up to 200,000 EUROS of aid every three year period). Ongoing support is available to business owners for one year. Business owners typically receive £4600, which includes start-up training workshop, a business grant and monthly support.

Kick-start your business idea

If you meet the following criteria, you’re free to apply!

Find out how to apply

What is BSEEN?

BSEEN supports aspiring student and graduate entrepreneurs in Birmingham to stop dreaming and just start. Our 12 month programme supports you from idea to launch and beyond, through a comprehensive package of support; training bootcamp to cover all the start-up essentials, business grant, mentoring, networking opportunities and co-working space.

Full Programme Details