The government’s new Start-up visa has been launched which allows international graduates to apply for a two-year visa to remain in the UK and develop a start-up business.
As part of UWE Bristol’s ambition to support innovation and enterprise, we are now inviting applications from UWE Bristol international graduates who have a high-tech, high-growth business idea to apply for a Start-up visa and benefit from using the free desk space and business support available from Launch Space.
Set in the heart of the University’s Enterprise Zone, Launch Space has supported over 50 businesses who have raised funds of £1.8 million and employing more than 90 people.
With connections in the regional start up, academic, and business communities, it’s a great place to kick off a start-up.
Students coming to the end of their studies apply to Launch Space which assesses the business proposal and viability.
Approved start-ups are then supported by the Immigration Team to make a visa application.
The specific support for students is
- 12 month free incubation space
- Business support from experienced business advisors
- Connections into the University community of academics and students, and the wider regional business community
After their first year of support people they will then have a further 12 months to develop their business further.
The University can put forward a maximum of 20 students per year although all business ideas are scrutinised in the Launch Space application process so not every applicant is accepted.
You can find out more about the opportunities available to international graduates by applying for a Start-up visa on the UWE Bristol website.
You can also contact the Immigration Advice Team, email immigrationadvice@uwe.ac.uk or visit the immigration hub in 2P4, Frenchay campus Monday to Thursday 10:30-12:00 / 14:00-15:30 and Friday 10:30-12:00.
Launch Space will receive up to £2,000,000 of funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is the programme’s Managing Authority. Established by the European Union, the ERDF helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects that support innovation, businesses, job creation and local community regeneration.
