Everyone’s entrepreneurial journey starts in a different place.
You might dream of opening a café or shop on your local high street. You might have graduated with a brilliant idea but aren’t sure where to begin. Or perhaps you’re a young person with skills, hobbies or ambitions that could become something much bigger.
Whatever stage you’re at, taking the first step is often the hardest.
That’s why Welsh ICE, in collaboration with Business Wales, has launched three completely free programmes designed to help people explore self-employment, build confidence and turn ideas into action.
High Street Growth Sprint
Have you ever imagined opening your own shop, café, salon, studio or customer-facing business?
The High Street Growth Sprint is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want practical guidance before taking on a retail premises. Together we’ll explore your idea, understand your customers, discuss marketing and visibility, and help you build a realistic plan for bringing your business to life.
Whether you’re still dreaming or already planning your launch, this programme will help you move forward with confidence.
From Graduate to Founder
Graduation isn’t always a straight path into employment.
Many graduates have valuable skills, creative talents or innovative ideas but don’t necessarily see themselves as business owners.
From Graduate to Founder helps graduates, freelancers, creatives and graduate returners discover how their knowledge and experience could become a successful business, consultancy or freelance career. It’s a supportive environment where you can test ideas, develop confidence and explore practical next steps.
Future Founder Sprint
Great business ideas don’t always come from boardrooms.
Sometimes they start in a bedroom, a garage, a hobby or a conversation with friends.
The Future Founder Sprint has been created for young adults aged 18–24 who want to explore what’s possible. Participants will discover how their interests and skills could become future opportunities, while building confidence, meeting like-minded people and learning about the free support available to them.
No previous business experience is required, just curiosity and an open mind.
Why Welsh ICE?
For more than a decade, Welsh ICE has helped thousands of people across Wales start, survive and grow successful businesses.
Our programmes are practical, friendly and designed around real people, not business jargon. Whether you’re exploring an idea for the first time or looking for support to take the next step, you’ll become part of a welcoming entrepreneurial community that continues long after the workshop has finished.
Find the Right Programme for You
All three programmes are completely free to attend and delivered in collaboration with Business Wales.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to explore your idea, this could be it.
Choose the programme that best fits your journey, book your free place and take the first step towards turning your ideas into reality.
Check out other upcoming events at Welsh ICE.
| Programme | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| 🏪 High Street Growth Sprint | Future shop owners, cafés, salons and retail businesses | Book Now → |
| 🎓 From Graduate to Founder | Graduates, freelancers and creatives | Book Now → |
| 🚀 Future Founder Sprint | Young adults aged 18–24 | Book Now → |
