5 ways to get involved in Oxford's start-up community

Wanting to get plugged into the start-up community in Oxford? Not sure where to start? Do not fear! I have pulled together some top tips on where to look, who to contact and what to sign up for.

1)    The best place to start is Enterprising Oxford, run by the fabulous ‘boss and minion’ Leah Thompson. It’s a University of Oxford website and concierge service designed to help you find your entrepreneurial path. The website is full of both bespoke and curated information, from beginner resources, to real life entrepreneur stories, to the places and spaces where it all happens. As Leah herself summarises, “it is a map and guide to all things entrepreneurship in Oxford”. Her top-tip is to check out the calendar and get yourself to an event!

2)   Wanting some inspiration? OxfordStartUps, run by the duo-team Jim Moodie and Ben Mumby-Croft, is the place to go. It’s a MeetUp group with over 700 members who get together on a bi-monthly basis for socials and speakers events on entrepreneurship. Whether it’s networking, business advice or wanting to meet some fellow entrepreneurs – See what’s going on and get registered.

3)   Want to stay motivated and make great connections? The Wheelhouse is Oxford’s newest co-working community hub, supporting entrepreneurs with affordable and beautiful work space. It’s a growing community in which you can meet new people, attend exclusive start up events and stay focused on the tasks for the day. They also provide as much coffee (from Missing Bean!) and tea as you can possibly drink! Check out their memberships and get yourself booked in for a free trial today!

4)   Interested in taking your business idea to the next level? Ben from OxfordStartUps also runs FAB, Oxford’s accelerator programme for entrepreneurs and startups, designed by those that have “been there and done it”. Their 12-week programme involves evening classes covering key business topics, regular 1-to-1 sessions with expert business mentors and even the opportunity to pitch for investment! Read testimonials and get in touch!

5)   Part of Oxford University? There is PLENTY of support for you. Roy Azoulay is the man to contact for advice on getting your business off the ground at Oxford University Innovation's Startup Incubator. You can also discover events, resources, networks and programmes with Oxford Entrepreneurs and Said Business School also run events across campus and prestigious business courses.

So, if you ever thought that there wasn’t much going on in Oxford, I hope this post has proved you wrong. Make sure to take advantage of this growing community and get connected, inspired and working!