A new programme, SPARK School, from TechSPARK, SETsquared and Engine Shed opens applications today.
Some of the biggest barriers to starting a business is knowing where to begin, how to set it up and who to ask for advice. SPARK School is looking to take people people with an idea and give them the knowledge and skills to build and scale a business.
SPARK School, made possible thanks to funding from the Natwest SKills & Opportunities Fund, is looking for applicants from underrepresented backgrounds who can become future leaders of the Bristol business community.
You have until 6 May to get your applications in for the course, with the 10-week programme set take place across evenings and weekends from 14 May to 16 July.
You can apply in the Typeform below, or directly through this link. The form should take around 15 minutes to complete.
About the course
Using the combined skills of TechSPARK, SETsquared and Engine Shed, course members will go through a 10-week course that teaches you everything you need to know about getting a business from an idea to a reality.
Led by Rick Chapman, a serially successful entrepreneur, attendees can expect the course to cover:
- What makes a good business idea?
- Market Research, selection and positioning
- Business Models and Strategy
- Marketing, promotion & branding a go-to-market strategy
- Product Development & IP Protection
- Business Finances
- Raising Funds & Funding Strategies
- Selling a Business
- Pitching and Presentation Skills
- Pulling it all together- The Pitch

Rick says, “I am constantly surprised by the innovative new businesses here in Bristol and Bath. I’m looking forward to helping a new generation of exciting businesses and business leaders take their first steps.”
More questions? Please visit the FAQs page for information on who can apply, further course details and more.

Shona Wright
Shona covers all things editorial at TechSPARK. She publishes news articles, interviews and features about our fantastic tech and digital ecosystem, working with startups and scaleups to spread the word about the cool things they're up to.
She also oversees TechSPARK's social media, sharing the latest updates on everything from investment news to green tech meetups and inspirational stories.