Got a business idea? The OU wants to help you make it happen

A woman sat at a desk working on a laptop.

Grants of up to £2,500 are being made available by the OU to support women, and those who identify as women, in developing their business ideas.

The Open Business Creators Fund, delivered by the OU and sponsored by NatWest, is now open. Whether you're just starting out or have a business idea, this is your chance to get funding and mentoring. You will also gain access to Validate — a step-by-step tool to help you shape your idea into a professional business portfolio. You’ll gain practical skills, confidence, and connections.

Open Business Creators aims to create the UK’s largest and most inclusive entrepreneurial learning community for those aspiring to start or grow their business.

The deadline to apply for the Open Business Creators Fund is Friday, 21 November. This opportunity is open to those over 16 and based in the UK.

Apply for the Fund (and find out more) via the Open Business Creators website

You can also join the OU's autumn webinar series to hear from inspirational women entrepreneurs: