Frequently asked questions about the Graduate Incubation Programme.
Who can apply?
Anyone who graduated from any course at Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon Colleges of Arts between 2016 and 2021 (the last 5 years).
Can I apply if I am not from the UK?
Yes you can, but if you are an international applicant and want endorsement for a Start-up Visa you must apply before 9.30am, Monday 14 Jun 2021 and take part in a Start-up Visa Selection Panel on the 24 and 25 June 2021 (exact timings to be confirmed).
How long does the selection process take?
Applications open 9.30am Monday 10 May 2021.
Applications for international applicants who would like endorsement for a Start-up Visa close 9.30am Monday 14 June 2021.
Applications for UK students close 9.30am Monday 31 August 2021.
We will notify applicants whether they are successful or not by 5.30pm Friday 5 September 2021.
I missed the deadline, can I still apply?
No, unfortunately we cannot consider late applications. Please complete your applications early in case you experience technical difficulties etc.
Can I apply again if my application was unsuccessful?
You are allowed to apply as many times as you wish, as long as you are still within 5 years from graduating.
What types of projects are selected?
We invite applications from graduates from any course and look for projects that have social impact and we think have potential to grow.
Do I need to have formed a company already?
Absolutely not! You can apply before you have formed a company, we welcome applications at idea-stage.
Can I run the business from abroad?
The business should be based in the UK. But we do appreciate in the future you may have international clients and customers.
What stage does my project need to be at?
We will accept idea-stage (very early stage projects) or later stage businesses. This means you may have graduated this year or you may have graduated a few years ago. We will assess your company based on its merits and based on the value we can add.
Do I have to have a team in place in order to apply?
No, you can apply as a team or alone.
Do I have to have a team in place in order to start the programme?
This is strongly encouraged but is not essential. We will encourage you to build a team as your business progresses – it’s much easier than doing it on your own!
How long does the incubation programme last?
Incubation typically lasts 12 months but we will continue to support you after you graduate from the programme.
How many days do I need to commit to the programme?
If invited into onto the programme, we expect participants to attend workshops, talks and mentoring approximately 2 working days a week.
Can I attend the programme if I work?
Yes, we have designed the programme to be as flexible as possible, particularly in the first 6 months.
What is UAL’s track record of enterprise development?
UAL has an excellent track record of producing and supporting creative entrepreneurs. In 2021 UAL was ranked the number one UK university for producing entrepreneurs (The Best Universities for Business, 2021), and the best university in the UK for starting and running a business (Hitachi Capital, 2020).