The Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) delivers a comprehensive programme of enterprise and entrepreneurship activities; in curricular, extra-curricular and co-curricular, while developing new learning resources to engage more students and graduates in enterprise and entrepreneurial education.
Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) – ARU
Our suite of activities comprises:
Create a New Enterprise Programme – for those at idea generation stage, this programme provides students and recent graduates from across our University the opportunity to explore various aspects of entrepreneurship and discover a passion for starting their own business, working for a social cause, or launching a freelance career.
Start a New Enterprise Programme – a developmental programme designed for aspiring student and graduate entrepreneurs to refine their business idea and develop a comprehensive business model.
Freelancer Fast Start Programme – an intensive 2-week programme designed for final year students with a clear offer to propel them into the world of freelancing.
#ThinkBigARU Pitching Competition – our event where students and recent graduates (up to 3 years) who have a start-up idea, can gain experience pitching to a panel of business community members and potential investors.
The Entrepreneurs’ Community – ARU’s platform for any ARU student, recent graduate, alumni, and staff aspiring to be entrepreneurs to come together, build their professional network, and meet like-minded people. The community also hosts virtual networking events.
AREA CoLab – a dynamic co-working space exclusively designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit among our budding entrepreneurs, freelancers, and self-employed individuals.
Inside AREA – a magazine that shares regular updates on opportunities, news, offers, and success stories at ARU and beyond.
ARU Start-Up Podcast Series – to encourage and help anyone looking to become a founder. The series features guest speakers from a range of sectors sharing their challenges, successes, and top tips.
Start-Up Evenings – events featuring guest speakers, entrepreneurial activities, and networking opportunities to showcase and support start-up journeys, gain professional connections, and inspire future entrepreneurs.
Enterprise Support Sessions – 1:1 appointments with a member of the AREA team, or legal support for ARU start-ups.
Entrepreneurs in Residence – 1:1 appointments for our students and recent graduates to meet with one of our Entrepreneurs in Residence to receive individual tailored support and expert guidance to really develop their venture.
Ruskin modules – an in-curricular opportunity to inspire students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset, consider problem solving, innovation and creativity, and communicate and evaluate these elements through a business pitch.
The Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy (AREA) also loves to partner and collaborate externally to offer the best opportunities for students and graduates.