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How to apply for The Crucible

The Crucible is a programme for individuals and partnerships that have a good business idea which needs support to become a viable business. 

It includes a comprehensive package of support to take your business idea from concept to realisation:

  • Access to expertise in new venture creation, business strategy, investment strategy, marketing and a range of other support measures tailored to helping you in your new venture endeavour. As part of the programme of support and activities that can be engaged in, successful applicants will receive mentoring and project management support.
  • A working space at the Innovation Centre in the heart of Leicester and DMU. From here you can network and develop your enterprise.
  • Successful applications will have opportunities to receive financial support from DMU, on a case-by-case basis
  • Support to identify investment opportunities available to you and help through the application process

Full terms and conditions will be issued to successful applicants.

How to apply

Applications for the 2024/25 Crucible are now open!

Are you looking to develop your business idea? Join our three-day bootcamp on 17, 18 and 19 June, and create a business plan with the support of our training expert, Alison Machin.

Delving into the logistics of your business, Alison will help you to maximise your skills and resources to ensure your offer is ready for your customers and the market. At the end of the bootcamp, you will have the opportunity to apply for a place on the Crucible programme – if that feels like the right route for you.

Take the first step and register for the bootcamp here.

For further information, or if you have any questions, thoughts or concerns please contact Percy at crucible@dmu.ac.uk, who would be happy to hear from you.

Who can apply?

The Crucible is open to:

  • DMU graduates/alumni
  • Current postgraduate students

Applicants need to have an innovative business idea that requires development and holds the potential to be the basis of a company by the end of the programme. If you have already started a business, we can still help if it has been within the last 18 months.

You don't need to have existing business knowledge, just a great idea!