"Would You Invest?" - From Start-up Idea to Investment - GEW 2026

CPD EventGlobal Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2026 Workshop: From Start-up Idea to Investment

Proposed by Howden, this interactive Enterprise Week session explores the risks that can determine whether a start-up secures investment and successfully scales. Drawing on real-world experience supporting technology start-ups and venture-backed businesses, the session examines common challenges including cyber incidents, intellectual property disputes, governance issues, employment disputes, and operational failures.

Participants will gain insight into what investors look for beyond a strong idea or pitch deck, including cyber resilience, IP ownership, governance, compliance, and founder credibility. Through practical case studies and discussion, students will learn how these factors can influence funding decisions and business growth.

A highlight of the session is the interactive "Would You Invest?" workshop, where participants assess a fictional start-up, identify key risks, and make investment recommendations from an investor's perspective.

Designed for student entrepreneurs, Venture Builder participants, and aspiring founders, the session provides a practical introduction to building resilient, investment-ready businesses and understanding the realities of start-up growth. It offers valuable insight into the commercial, operational, and strategic considerations that help turn innovative ideas into successful ventures.