Develop an idea. Help shape the society. Find your next step.
Proposed programme
Got an idea but unsure where to start? Or interested in building something but haven’t found the right people yet?
Launchpad is a proposed six-week programme that helps Durham students explore ideas, find teammates and start building a startup.
Ask about LaunchpadStart with an open, guided session where you can try building something and meet potential teammates. You don’t need a polished pitch or technical experience to take part.
Selected teams will join Launchpad to test their ideas, develop an initial product and learn from founders and guest speakers. Sessions will cover questions you’ll face along the way: does anyone want this, how do we build it, and how could it become a business?
We’re working with Acceler8 towards a joint Demo Day in London in late November. Teams will have a chance to present their progress alongside students from other universities. The date and format are still being confirmed.
After Demo Day, we’ll help teams work through feedback and decide what to do next. We also plan to offer further support in the new year for teams that want to continue.
Build Day and application dates are still to be confirmed.
An idea tested with potential users, an initial product you can demonstrate, and a clear explanation of what you’re building and why.
You’ll also meet other students who want to build, with opportunities to learn from people who’ve started companies themselves.
Join our Subcommittee, Research & Publication team, or AI Projects team and help shape DUE this year.
Applications close 16 October 2026.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early. You are welcome to apply for more than one role.
Our resource collection is being prepared. Join the community for updates and shared links.
Join the communityMeet people who challenge you and make you question whether you’re thinking big enough. Let’s build something together.