South Devon’s rising stars launch bold new business ideas

A new entrepreneurship programme aimed at students and recent graduates with exciting business ideas is currently underway at South Devon College.

The EPIC Futures Entrepreneurship Programme supports up to 20 individuals, who can enter individually or as teams, helping them develop their ideas into viable businesses.

Starting on Wednesday 18 June, the six two-hour workshops run twice weekly until Thursday 3 July. Sessions cover essential topics including business mindset, innovation, intellectual property, finance, marketing, and pitching.

The programme culminates in a final pitch day on Tuesday 8 July, where participants will present their business model canvas and pitch their ideas to a panel of judges.

Prizes of £1,500, £1,000 and £500 will be awarded to the winning teams or individuals.

One-to-one mentoring is also available throughout the course, offering tailored advice on finance, marketing, business strategy, and intellectual property.

Looking ahead, organisers plan to roll the programme out next year in partnership with South Devon College and all Torbay secondary schools, aiming to inspire and support more young entrepreneurs across the region.

EPIC Hatchery Programme Itinerary 

Wednesday 18 June - 10.00am - midday: Starting your business and the entrepreneurial mindset
What makes a good idea? How can a good idea transform into a good business?

Friday 20 June - midday – 2.00pm: Developing your idea; Ideation, Innovation, and introduction to Business Model Canvas
Innovation isn’t invention. How can I make my business innovative? What is my value proposition – my differentiator? Who are my suppliers and stakeholders? Who are my customers and how do I get to them?

Wednesday 25 June – 10.00am – midday: Understanding Intellectual Property and business structures
IP isn’t just patents – it’s brand, protecting your data base, copyright, trademarks – even choosing the right business name and logo. What is the best legal structure for me and what do I need to do when I start.

Thursday 26 June - midday – 2.00pm: Knowing the numbers
All things financial, it’s not as frightening as you think! Cashflow and forecasts, Profit and Loss and balance sheets made simple.

Wednesday 2 July – 10.00am - midday: Selling and Marketing
What’s the best marketing and sales strategy for me? What’s my pricing strategy? What’s the best social media platform – who, how and when do I sell my product/service?

Thursday 3 July – midday – 2.00pm: Pitching and Funding
How to do a sales/investment pitch and what’s the difference? Is funding and finance available and how do I get it? How would the prize money help kickstart my business?

Tuesday 8th July 10.00am – 3.00pm (Timings TBC): Final Pitch Day
With participants having submitted their business model canvas, they will present their business idea to a panel of judges. (15 minutes per pitch including questions)