UP START
Start your business with support
If you are at the idea stage or just getting your business off the ground, START brings together programmes, mentoring and events that help you move from thinking about it to actually doing it.
Who START is for
START is for people who are at the beginning of their business journey.
- You have an idea and want to understand if it can become a viable business.
- You have recently registered or launched but still feel you are figuring things out.
- You want support with the basics such as planning, pricing, marketing and confidence.
- You prefer to learn with others rather than trying to work it out on your own.
- If any of this sounds familiar, START is the right first step.
- IDEA
- PLANNING
- FIRST CUSTOMERS
- READY FOR GROW
What you can access through START today
Here are the main ways you can get support at the start of your journey. During this transition phase, detailed information and application forms still live on the Startup Croydon site.
Business Bootcamp
A practical, intensive programme that helps you clarify your idea, understand your market and build a simple plan to get started.
- Designed for early stage founders.
- Mix of group sessions and practical exercises.
How START usually works
Tell us where you are
Use the contact form or a short mentoring request to tell us about your idea or early stage business.
Join the right mix of support
You might join a Business Bootcamp cohort, attend a workshop or have one to one mentoring, depending on your needs.
Leave with a clearer plan
The goal is that you leave START with more clarity about your next steps and which GROW opportunities might suit you later on.
Stay connected with the wider ecosystem
Through START you are introduced to the wider UP ecosystem, including space, events and creative support that you can tap into as you progress.
How START fits into the wider UP ecosystem
Here are the main ways you can get support at the start of your journey. During this transition phase, detailed information and application forms still live on the Startup Croydon site.
GROW
If your business is already up and running and you want to grow, GROW connects you to funded support, incubator programmes and expert guidance.
SPACE
If you need somewhere to work, meet or register your business, UP Space offers serviced offices, coworking, meeting rooms and virtual office options.
CREATIVE
If you want to create content that stands out, UP Creative offers studio hire, podcast support and practical training to help you create with confidence.
NETWORK
Events, networking, mentors and a directory of trusted providers, the wider UP ecosystem around your business.
Not sure if START is the right fit?
If you are not completely sure whether START is the best place for you to begin, tell us a bit about your situation and we will point you in the right direction.