Start-up Day 2026

Got a brilliant business idea you want to get off the ground? Start-up Day is back for 2026 to give you the knowledge, connections and inspiration you need to launch with confidence.

Join us at the British Library, participating BIPC libraries around the UK and online for a full day of jargon-free workshops and expert-led sessions designed to help you turn ideas into action. Come with an idea, and you’ll leave with a plan!

In-person tickets for the British Library event are on sale now. Tickets for events at libraries around the UK and online will be released soon.

Find out more...

Who are the featured speakers?

We’re currently finalising a jam-packed day and an inspiring line-up of speakers – stay tuned for the full reveal coming soon.

To give you a taste of what to expect, here’s a look at some of our past speakers

• Sarah Beeny (Broadcaster and entrepreneur)
• Joe Wicks & Nikki Wicks (Founders of The Body Coach)
• Sara Davies MBE (BBC Dragons’ Den investor and Founder of Crafter’s Companion)
• Charlie Bigham (Founder of Charlie Bigham’s)
• Martha Keith (Founder of Martha Brook)
• Jack Dorsey (Co-founder and former CEO of Twitter and Block)
• Mintel (Market research powerhouse)

What to expect?

• Inspiring panels – Hear from industry leaders on how they started up.
• Ask the experts – Get one-on-one guidance on finance, marketing, intellectual property and more.
• Practical masterclasses – You’ll have everything you need to get – and stay – off the ground.
• Networking – Make valuable connections with fellow founders, experts and potential collaborators.

Who should attend?

Start-up Day is ideal for anyone with a business idea, side-hustlers, creatives and early-stage startups to attend. It is designed to give you the momentum, skills and confidence to turn your idea into reality. Plus, give you a taster of the incredible free business support available to help you at the Business & IP Centre all year.

If you are thinking of starting a business, or have recently started, Start-up Day is for you! However, Start-up Day also offers a fresh perspective and connections valuable for businesses at any stage, and any founders are very welcome to join us.