Introduction from the Chairman
Are you a Downing student or recent alumnus who has a business idea which you feel is commercial, but lack the money or the confidence in your ability to implement it effectively?Achieving success as an entrepreneur depends on a variety of factors but, as those who have found success will vouch, two of the most critical are also two of the hardest to come by. These are the money necessary to put the original idea into effect and the business know-how to make a worthwhile economic return on the initial investment.
Your time at Downing, whether as an undergraduate or a graduate student, provides an exceptional opportunity for learning of many kinds. One area, however, which it is difficult, if not impossible, for any mainstream university or college to support is in providing real business experience to students. It is to try to fill this gap, and to provide the two critical ingredients outlined above, that we have established the Downing Entrepreneurs Fund.
Downing alumni of various vintages have committed their support, not only in financial terms but also in terms of their time, to help current college students develop business plans and then put them into action with up to £20,000 of the Fund's money each.
Details of the Fund and how to apply are laid out in this website. The only initial requirements are a commercial idea and the ability to articulate it in writing in a brief business proposal; the Fund will then assess these, help develop a detailed business plan and, ultimately, select a number to receive the cash investment necessary to get them off the ground.
I hope you will take part. At least take the time to look at the website and see what the Fund has to offer before deciding that this is an opportunity that you can afford to let pass.
Best Wishes,
Chairman