Making Waves in Business Uppingham has produced an exceptional number of entrepreneurs over the years, many of whom have created exciting brands and businesses both large and small. Some learnt their trade by buying and selling in-demand goods (occasionally illicit!) within their boarding houses, others have it in their blood, some are inspired by personal experiences and others fall into it almost by
accident. Each of their journeys and outcomes are uniquely different, but what appears consistent is the entrepreneurial spirit amongst them all – innovating, pioneering, determined, self-motivating, tenacious and brave.
The Value of Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship is important for many reasons – providing job opportunities; introducing innovative technologies; creating new businesses and markets; stimulating competition and propelling industries and sectors forward. Successful entrepreneurial ventures also inspire others to take the leap, to follow passions and explore ideas. With the aim of harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit amongst the OU community, a School for Life networking event was held in London in September, centred around a Q&A session with a panel of outstanding OU entrepreneurs. The evening was highly informative with subjects covered ranging from ‘how do I raise finance?’, to ‘when is the right time to go it alone?’ and ‘what do I do when I feel the responsibility for my business is overwhelming me?’. In true OU-style there was also plenty of time for guests to share their own stories, make new acquaintances and useful contacts.
Next Steps… After the buzz of the event, the OU team plan to set up an OU entrepreneur networking and support group. If you would like to be part of this initiative, please email schoolforlife@uppingham.co.uk.
36 Entrepreneurs
