Skip to main content
Careers, Employability and Enterprise
The bustling Careers and Enterprise Centre entrance in the Palatine Centre

Durham Venture School

Launch high‑potential startups and build ventures capable of creating significant impact.

Durham Venture School brings together talented individuals to explore major global and industry challenges and turn them into new venture opportunities. You’ll have the chance to work alongside fellow Durham University graduates, develop innovative solutions, and build startups with the potential to make a real difference.

Brought to you by Venture Lab, Durham Venture School offers an unrivalled package of support, combining world‑class tools, resources, and connections to help you generate new ideas and accelerate your entrepreneurial journey. By taking part you’ll have the chance to:

  • Use proven tools and techniques to explore significant problems and develop new ideas.
  • Gain inspiration from visits to high‑growth businesses in the US, London, and the North East.
  • Receive a £1,000 per month stipend for the first three months of the programme.
  • Pitch for £12,000 in initial funding to launch your new venture.
  • Access coaching from experienced entrepreneurs.
  • Receive mentoring from global experts within the Durham University alumni network.
  • Join a community of ambitious founders committed to creating ventures with meaningful impact.

Durham Venture School will start in September 2026. The programme will last either three or six months depending on the progress of your team.

Open to graduates of Durham University, including students graduating in 2026, who are driven to make a difference in the world. Applicants should be ambitious, ready to challenge their own thinking, and willing to work collaboratively to make ideas happen.

This opportunity is open to UK and international graduates. Participants are required to join the programme on a full‑time basis. For visa‑related queries, please contact Steve Bowden (stephen.r.bowden@durham.ac.uk), Senior Startup Manager.

How do I apply?

The first phase of the application process will be a written application.

If you are successful during the first phase, you will be invited to an interview with the Venture Lab team. 

Applications are now open and close on Friday 29th May 2026. Apply here