You don't need a business. You need an idea.

TrustEdge Launchpad is a mentoring programme for young people in London with a business idea they haven't started yet. Applications close 31st September.

Apply now

Who it's for

You have an idea, not a business

If you've already launched, this isn't for you. Launchpad is for the stage before that.

It can be any kind of idea

A product, a service, something online, something local. It doesn't have to be tech.

You're at school or college in London

Sixth form, college, or secondary school.

You've never done anything like this before

Most people applying haven't. That's the point.

Key dates

  • Applications close — 31st September

What happens on the programme

  1. Shape the idea

    Work out what you're actually offering, who it's for, and whether anyone would pay for it.

  2. Build the plan

    Pricing, costs, and what it would take to start. The unglamorous part that decides whether it works.

  3. Mentoring

    One-to-one sessions with someone who'll be honest with you, not just encouraging.

  4. Pitch it

    You present your idea at the end of the programme.

Sessions run alongside school, not instead of it.

What happens at the end

Everyone who completes the programme and pitches is considered for funding to help get their idea off the ground.

Funding is subject to confirmed partner funding for each cohort. If you're offered funding, we'll set out the full terms in writing — including what TrustEdge receives in return — before you or your parent or guardian agree to anything.

Launchpad applications

Apply now

Eligible young people in London can submit a first application below. Keep it concise and tell us about your school or college context and your idea.

Applications are sent directly to the Trust Edge UK team at [email protected].

Application received. We will review it and reply from [email protected].

We could not send your application just now. Please try again in a moment or email [email protected].

Launchpad FAQ

Questions before you apply

Clear answers for first-time applicants, so your team can move forward with confidence.

Do I need a business already?

No. The opposite, actually. Launchpad is for ideas that haven't been started. If you're already trading, this isn't the right programme for you.

How old do I have to be?

It's aimed at students in secondary school, sixth form or college in London.

What are the terms if I'm offered funding?

We'll give you the full terms in writing before anything is agreed, and your parent or guardian gets a copy too. Nothing gets signed on the day.

Does it cost anything to take part?

No. There's no fee for the programme.

What if my idea is rubbish?

Then we'll help you work out why, and you'll be better at the next one. Nobody's idea is finished at this stage.

How much time does it take?

Sessions run alongside school. We'll confirm the schedule with everyone who's accepted before it starts.

Apply

It takes about five minutes. You don't need a polished idea — you need an honest one.

Have you already started this business?

Application submitted. Thank you — we'll be in touch soon.

We couldn't submit your application. Please try again.

We only use your details to run the application process. We don't share them with anyone else.