Start Strong Islington

Start Strong Islington is a six-week entrepreneurship programme delivered by Allia Impact in partnership with Better Space.

The programme is designed for Islington residents who have an early-stage idea and are looking for support to explore, test, and develop it into a viable venture.

Participants may be at the idea, research, or early testing stage and do not require previous business experience.

Support includes:

• Practical workshops covering business models, legal structures, sales and customer pathways, alternative funding options, and storytelling and pitching.
• One-to-one support sessions with the programme team throughout the programme.
• Access to experienced mentors, founders, and industry professionals.
• Peer learning and networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and community changemakers.
• Support with validating ideas, understanding customers, developing business models, and planning next steps.
• Guidance on marketing, funding readiness, and venture development.
• The opportunity to pitch for a £1,000 venture grant.
• Six months of free workspace at Better Space for successful participants.

The programme aims to make entrepreneurship more accessible while helping residents build confidence, develop practical skills, and create ventures that generate positive social, environmental, and economic impact within Islington and beyond.

Eligibility requirements

Open to all Islington SMEs.