University to host free Enterprise Launchpad event in Chester

The Enterprise Launchpad two-day event in Chester city centre will be hosted by the University’s Careers and Employability team, from April 21 to 22, 2026.

The initiative aims to boost business skills, collaboration, venture creation, and freelance career pathways while connecting entrepreneurial students and graduates with like-minded individuals from the Cheshire and wider region, creating a thriving and supportive network of innovation and enterprise.

Designed for anyone ready to take the next step in their entrepreneurial endeavours, the event includes guidance on what makes a business idea viable and developing practical skills and contacts.

The first day of the Enterprise Launchpad, at The Crowne Plaza from 9am, will feature knowledge-packed sessions that will give attendees a strong foundation on building a business, with experts such as Rebecca Robinson, Matt Langford, Cat Williams, and Sarah Bailey.

The second day, starting late afternoon, will offer a relaxed networking opportunity for students, graduates and early-stage business owners. The day will also include a one-hour session with influencer and content creator, Omobolaji Ajibare, on how attendees can elevate their brand’s social media presence, and a panel Q&A session with past participants of the University’s Venture Pitch initiative and University of Chester alumni who have gone on to start their own business.

Registration is now open to University of Chester students and graduates - who have graduated within the past two years - as well as any early stage and aspiring business owners.

Amber Gaffoor, Venture and Volunteering Co-ordinator at the University, said: “The Enterprise Launchpad is a great way for our students, graduates, and new entrepreneurs in the local area to take those first steps with their business idea. It’s perfect for anyone who’s just starting to explore an idea or already building on something exciting. We’ve designed the Launchpad to give people the space, support, and community they need to learn, grow, and surround themselves with other entrepreneurs.”

The Enterprise Launchpad is part of the University’s Venture Programme which supports students and graduates in developing their business ideas and skills, providing workshops led by entrepreneurs, online sessions, mentorship opportunities and the annual Venture Pitch event where participants compete for start-up funding and prizes.

Day one of the Enterprise Launchpad on Tuesday, April 21 runs from 9am to 5pm and day two on Wednesday, April 22, takes place from 4pm to 8pm.

For further information and to register, please visit the Enterprise Launchpad website.

Above: Industry experts and University of Chester alumni taking part in the event.