Business Idea and Start-Up Clinic

It's no secret that today's world has many challenges for new business leaders to navigate, from economic crises to the rapid development of new technology. But with these challenges come new opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, looking to find solutions and help change the world with their innovative business ideas. The Clinic addresses these challenges by offering attendees practical guidance and step by step goals.

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 in depth. The appointment is completely free and guidance is tailored for each individual. It generally includes the best way to commercialise your idea and guidance on how to get involved with other HELAB initiatives, such as the IDEAFEST Student Business Idea Competition and Henley Business Angels.

Founded back in 2014, the Clinic is open to all current students or alumni of Henley Business School and the University of Reading, worldwide. The Clinic is held on Wednesdays with each slot lasting for half an hour. To book an appointment please go to Book Appointment and provide the following:

- A full CV or LinkedIn profile, outlining your education and employment experience

- A summary of your business idea/newly formed business and why you believe it can succeed (250-500 words)

- A list of the questions that you would like answered during the appointment

Over 200 students and alumni have taken advantage of the Clinic to date and received support and advice. This is what some students and alumni had to say:

Charles Domician, Agricultural, Environmental and Food Economics PhD student: "The Clinic gave me confidence on approaching potential customers in order to sell my business idea."

Danhua Wu, MA Education in Leadership alumnus: "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."

Sirada Chokwareeporn, MSc Entrepreneurship in Leadership alumnus: "I got an unexpected idea from Jurek which helped me apply with my business plan and made my team win IDEAFEST."

Hetianbo Chen, MSc Investment Management alumnus and founder of UNIK: "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."

We are always looking to improve the quality of our Clinic sessions. If you have attended a Clinic appointment please share your thoughts by completing our Feedback Form and return it to Jurek Sikorski, Director of the Henley Enterprise Lab, by emailing jurek.sikorski@henley.ac.uk