Are you a student or graduate with a business idea? Enter our annual competition to develop your entrepreneurial skills, grow your business and compete for prize funding.
This competition is delivered in partnership with Santander Universities UK.
Key benefits
- Build your business skills while developing or growing your venture
- Join dedicated workshops designed to support your progress
- Compete for a share of prize funding
- Get tailored support – whether you're an aspiring freelancer, developing a new business concept or growing a side hustle
What's involved?
The Big Idea Competition is an opportunity to take your business idea to the next level and accelerate your path to success.
By submitting your idea or project, you’ll get the chance to:
- join a two-day upskill bootcamp delivered by industry experts
- apply to pitch for prize funding and one-to-one mentoring
You can enter one of three categories, each with its own learning outcomes and prize funding.
How to enter
Applications for the next Big Idea Competition will open in January 2026.
To stay updated, register your interest using the form below.
What to know before applying
- By applying for the Big Idea Competition, you agree to follow the WeNetwork Statement of Service
- All applicants are encouraged to take part in the Big Idea upskill bootcamp, where you’ll receive support to develop your business idea
- The competition includes a selection process based on set criteria, and not all applicants will be invited to pitch at the Grand Final
- All decisions made by the WeNetwork Team are final
What past participants say
The mentoring helped me take actionable steps to build my business.
Ellie Schuetze, Freelance Finalist
I now have a clear plan of action to move forward with confidence.
Nicole McGregor, Ideate Finalist
Photographs from past competitions
Finalists presented with their certificates of participation and prize funding.
Finalist pitching their idea at the Grand Final.
Participants taking part in the upskill bootcamp.
Contact us
Got a question about the Big Idea Competition? Email us at [email protected]Email us about the Big Idea Competition.