NOT SURE IF SELF-EMPLOYMENT IS FOR YOU? START HERE.
6 weeks
1 session per week
In-person
Daytime delivery
Free
Fully funded
20 places
Per cohort
18–30
London-based
1 cohort
Per year
This is for you if…
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You've had a business idea but you're not sure it's good enough yet
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You're curious about working for yourself but don't know where to start
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You've heard about entrepreneurship but it's never felt confident to go for it
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You want to try something before committing to the Pathways programme
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You're between things, finishing education, between jobs, figuring it out
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You're 18–30, based in London, and ready to show up for six weeks
You don't need a business plan. You don't need experience. You just need to be curious about what's possible.
Six weeks that could change your direction.
Every week, you'll come together with a group of young people asking the same questions you are. In a real space, with real coaches, doing real work.
Clarity
Figure out if self-employment is actually for you and what your next step looks like.
Real insight
Hear from BLP alumni and business partners who've been where you are and made it work.
Confidence
Build your voice, your ideas, and your belief in yourself. Practise in a room that's on your side.
Next step
Leave with a clear next step. Whether that's Pathways, a job, or something else entirely.
What actually happens each week
Six sessions. One per week. In-person, in the daytime, in a space designed to help you think, create, and connect.
Week 1
Mindset and Goal Setting
Figure out what you actually want. We talk about initiative, adaptability, and self-motivation, and what those words really mean for your life.
Week 2
Communication and Peer Feedback
Practise sharing your ideas with the room. Give and receive honest feedback. Start building your voice.
Week 3
Planning and Problem-Solving
Turn your thinking into something real. Work through a simple business or project plan in a small group.
Week 4
Industry Exposure and Adaptability
Hear from BLP alumni and partners about what running a business actually looks like. Gain perspective from people who've done it.
Week 5
Presentation and Confidence
Deliver a short, light-touch pitch. It's not scary, it's practice. Leave with coach and peer feedback that helps you grow.
Week 6
Consolidation and Next Steps
Wrap up, reflect on how far you've come, and leave with a clear roadmap for what comes next, Pathways, a job, or your own path.
Business Lab is just the beginning.
If you develop a clear idea and the confidence to go further, you'll have a direct route into Pathways BLP's flagship 12-week programme with 1:1 coaching, a £5,000 prize, and a community that lasts beyond the programme.
Not everyone leaves Business Lab heading straight into Pathways, and that's completely fine. Some participants move into employment. Some need a bit more time. Some discover that running a business isn't for them right now, and that's a valuable thing to know.
Whatever your next step, you won't leave without a plan.
Business Lab → Pathways → Hustler or Pivot Track → BLP Alumni Network
Or: employment, BLP Community Hub, or your own path. Every route is valid.
Frequently asked questions
REGISTRATION FORM FOR BUSINESS LAB
Not sure if Business Lab is right for you?
and we'll help you figure it out.
Email us at hello@businesslaunchpad.org.uk