By Beatrice Morandi | Journalism BA
Date: 20 March 2025
The Big Idea Challenge Bootcamp Day 2025, held on 11 March at NatWest’s Bishopsgate Conference House, once again brought together aspiring entrepreneurs from schools and colleges across London.
The event saw 12 teams pitch their ideas, which included AI-driven children's care solutions to sustainable beauty products. Another particularly bright idea was an energy drink made without caffeine but infused with aloe vera. The group captivated the audience with a marvellous presentation, demonstrating creativity and inclusivity in their approach.
The Big Idea Challenge, established in 2014, is London Metropolitan University’s flagship enterprise competition. Open to students from schools and colleges across London, it has supported over 200 business ideas and helped launch more than 20 winning projects.
Opening the event, one of the event organisers, Mandy Malcolm from London Metropolitan University’s Widening Participation Team, highlighted the importance of the challenge: "This competition isn’t just about coming up with a good idea; it's about developing the confidence and skills to bring that idea to life. Year after year, we see students grow tremendously in just a short amount of time."
Mentors played a crucial role in refining each project, helping students develop their concepts with a more professional, market-focused approach. Judges looked for originality, feasibility, and impact. One mentor from Natwest explained, "The best ideas are the ones that solve a real problem in a unique way. It's always exciting to see young minds come up with solutions we haven’t seen before."
A key feature of the bootcamp was a life coaching session aimed at boosting students' confidence in pitching. Participants shared personal motivations and learned how to communicate their ideas effectively. One 17-year-old student reflected, "From this experience, I've learned that I am able to work in a group, and with the right people by my side, I can really make a difference to those who, like me, don't believe in themselves."
A teacher attending the event also praised the experience, stating, "London Met’s Big Idea Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for students to gain real-world insights from business professionals. It’s more than just a competition—it’s a chance to build skills, confidence, and connections. Students and mentors collaborate closely, creating bonds that often extend far beyond the event, shaping future careers."
The Big Idea Challenge, supported by NatWest and London Metropolitan University, continues to provide young innovators with invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. For students inspired by this year's event, applications for next year's challenge will open soon, offering a chance to develop and pitch their own groundbreaking ideas.
