LAUNCH
LAUNCH
2026
Discover the challenges faced in a local borough in London and learn what it takes to launch a social enterprise that is sustainable, viable and cost effective.
Compete against students across the UK and present your idea in a Dragon’s Den style pitch to a panel of expert judges. The winning team will win seed funding to help turn your idea into reality.
Who can take part?
UK students in Year 12
Form teams of 2 - 5
What do you do?
Devise a social enterprise in response to challenges faced in a local borough in London
Prize?
Win seed funding to implement your idea
You will also receive mentorship to support your journey.
ROUND 1
ROUND 2
ROUND 3
Business Plan
Design a social enterprise in response to the Case Study and outline your idea in a professional-level Business Plan.
Build Your Brand
Following expert feedback, continue to develop your idea and Build Your Brand through a website, logo and marketing materials.
The Final Pitch
The top five teams will present their social enterprise to a panel of industry expert judges, in a Dragons Den style pitch and Q&A.
PRIZE
Win seed funding to implement your idea
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Sustainability
You should ensure that the social enterprise can maintain a rate of growth.
Viability
Is the idea practical and realistic?
Cost-effectiveness
How does the idea generate income whilst minimising costs?
Creativity
An innovative response to the core challenge.
Research
Evidence of conducting independent research as well as utilising YSE resources.
