About 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 for a full day of practical, jargon-free sessions, expert insights and networking at the British Library’s Business & IP Centre. Come with an idea, and you’ll leave with a plan!
To find out more, click here.
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 entrepreneurs, 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.
About the Business & IP Centre
The British Library Business & IP Centre supports people to start, protect and grow their businesses. More information is available on our website.
You are welcome to take part in our regular programme of workshops and events. View our full programme of events.
Want to hear more about events like this?
Sign up to our emails to be the first to hear about upcoming events and exhibitions at the Library.
You might also like
Start-up Stars: Turning skills into start-ups
Join us in Manchester or online to hear from graduates of the Get Ready for Business Growth programme share how they used their skills to start and grow their businesses.
How to keep on top of your business finances
Maximise business potential with financial clarity! Gain vital skills in managing your business numbers confidently.
Behind the shelves: how to get your products stocked in retail
Breaking into retail can seem impossible. This workshop will demystify the process of getting your products into shops, tell you what retailers are actually thinking and help you assess whether retail is right for your business.