What's The Big Idea?

Applications Now Open

Have an exciting and novel business idea?

Whether you’ve thought of an idea overnight, or have already started your own business, you could be in with the chance of winning a share of our £7,000 What’s The Big Idea? prize pot.

We’ve 10 awards up for grabs:

1. Best Overall Idea (£2,000)
   All submissions will automatically be considered by our judges for the best overall business idea.
2. Most Innovative idea (£1,000)
   Does your idea demonstrate unique innovation through the problem it solves or value it creates? The Most Innovative Idea category will consider all submissions, selected by our external judges.
3. Best Climate Impact Idea (£500)
   The winning idea in this category will clearly demonstrate a sincere commitment to making a positive impact on the climate crisis. This idea may not have a purely commercial focus but should be self-sustaining. Applicants should think outside the box and consider all beneficiaries of their climate-focused idea.
4. Best Idea for a Social Enterprise (£500)
   This category is for proposed ideas that tackle strong social issues and are self-sustaining through income generation, whilst also impacting a variety of beneficiaries. Driven by a clear mission, social enterprises are integral to the economy and society.
5. Best Use of AI in a Business Idea (£500)
   Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a fast-moving trend at the core of many new technological advancements. If AI is at the heart of your proposed idea, put forward a case to be considered for this category and capture the minds of our judges.   
6. Best Idea from the Creative Industries (£500)
   The winner of this category will present an idea that demonstrates a competitive edge and clear proposal in a creative sector.
7. Best Idea from a Postgraduate (£500)
   Submit your idea to be considered in this category if you are currently undertaking a Postgraduate degree.
8. Best Idea from an International Student (£500)
   Submit your idea to be considered in this category if you are an International Student.
9. Best Idea from a Woman (£500)
   Submit your idea to be considered in this category if you are a student that identifies as a Woman.
10. Best Idea from a First Year (£500)
    Submit your idea to be considered in this category if you are a first year student completing an Undergraduate degree. 

You’ll also have the chance to meet local entrepreneurs, develop your business skills and compete for even more cash in other competitions.

What's The Big Idea 2025 Application Form

Applications close 12 Noon, Mon 24 Nov 2025

This competition is supported by Ormeau Business Park, Kainos and the Co-Centre for Climate + Biodiversity + Water.