Loughborough University graduate startup announces opening for applications

Graduate start-up programme, The Studio, is open for applications from Loughborough University graduates who want to launch or develop their own businesses.

Katie Michaels – Studio member and founder of Moti Me – at the LeicesterhireLive Awards 2023
Katie Michaels – Studio member and Moti Me founder

Graduates from the last five years can apply to join The Studio – benefits include free workspace, the chance to access up to £7,500 start-up funds, bespoke training and more.

The Studio is hosted within LUinc., the University’s business incubator located at LUSEP, the University’s Science and Enterprise Park.

LUinc. brings together graduate and academic entrepreneurs with founders from across the region and beyond to create a rich and supportive start-up community. LUinc. is a part of the Loughborough Enterprise Network (LEN) – a community which connects the University’s entrepreneurial people and places.

Katie Michaels (Industrial and Product Design 2020) founded Moti Me in The Studio in July 2021 to accelerate the development of a physiotherapy-focused product to help children with disabilities. Through LEN she has benefited from funding, training and support.

“The Studio has enabled me to make valuable connections with experts in the physiotherapy and manufacturing field, as well as having access to educational seminars and funding through the University which has been a massive help to cover the initial set up costs,” said Katie.

I’ve also pitched to Loughborough Alumni where I met John (Norman) Liley (MBA 1987, Mechanical Engineering 1980) who has been a brilliant business mentor and I have really enjoyed working with.

I highly recommend The Studio to anyone looking to start a business! Without it I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

The Studio’s support is free – no fees, no equity, no charges. Apply online until midnight on 09 April.