FACULTIES

Business, Finance, and Enterprise

Innovate students who choose the Faculty of Business can expect an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles of commerce, financial management, and entrepreneurship in this pre-university programme. Explore business dynamics, financial systems, and entrepreneurial strategies, setting a strong foundation for future success.

The Faculty of Business, Finance, and Enterprise offers a dynamic and comprehensive programme for students interested in the world of commerce, entrepreneurship, and financial management. Our curriculum provides a solid foundation in essential business principles, including management, marketing, and finance, while also fostering entrepreneurial thinking. Through interactive lectures and hands-on projects, students develop practical financial skills and gain a deeper understanding of investment strategies, business ethics, and corporate responsibility.

2027 Intake Dates

Intake 1

Thursday 1 July – Thursday 15 July 2027

Intake 2

Thursday 15 July – Thursday 29 July 2027

Intake 3

Thursday 29 July – Thursday 12 August 2027

Loved by our students

    
 
 
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   Sanaa Hamid 
 7 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This summer school provides a fruitful and engaging experience to students. It is not only about providing University-level introductory lectures, but also about project based activities that encourage critical thinking and creativity. In addition, there are lectures about preparing for University education, and several campus and company visits. I highly suggest this school for prospective students.
  
 
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   Catrona McDaid 
 7 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My daughter recently returned from the Innovate Summer Academy and had an incredible experience, and I can't recommend it highly enough. The quality of teaching was first-class. The lectures went into real depth, and small class sizes meant she got genuine one-to-one time with them to discuss her learning in more detail. This all came together in her Capstone project, where she applied what she'd learned in class and her industry visits, developed skills in critical thinking and problem-solving and presented confidently to a panel of experienced lecturers. She has since told me this experience has confirmed exactly what she wants to study at university next year and I’m delighted as before, she was a bit unsure. Beyond the academics, the programme struck a brilliant balance. The timetable left space to explore London, bond with her group (she has so many amazing pictures and stories!), take in the city's cultural highlights, and go on industry visits that brought her classroom learning to life. She's made genuine friends who are planning to stay in touch and meet up next year and she’s left feeling motivated and ready for the next step in her academic journey. Huge thanks to the whole Innovate team and a special shout out to Kevin, the programme lead, for creating a summer programme that balances academic rigour with a fantastic life experience, and Josh, who looked after the students so well day to day. Highly recommended without hesitation and thank you so much - my daughter will never forget her time with you all!
  
 
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   Diego D. 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This program was a great experience. The classes in my faculty (engineering) were very interesting because they showed us how engineers think and approach problems. The talks held each day were inspiring, as they were given by speakers who had genuinely overcome significant challenges and achieved success.
  
 
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   Andreja Popovic 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelent experience met people who I will stay friends for a long time and learned sruff I cant learn in school
  
 
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   Tasso Chatzinikolaou 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great summer experience. Highly recommend
  
 
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   ifemdifechi egwuenu 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very fun and engaging program and allowed me to see, understand and know what I want to study next. The staff were amazing and always kind and I felt very comfortable here
  
 
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   Megan Sumner 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A great, immersive experience. We got practical experience and excursions we wouldn’t be able to access anywhere else. We also got to do lots of sightseeing
  
 
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   Георгий 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the best summer camp experiences I’ve ever had🤝🔥
  
 
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   Joshua Byrne 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really great program with great faculty options , wonderful student experience would 100% recommend
  
 
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   Berk 
 5 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was the best experience I have ever had.

This is a big step in my path to university, and I feel like it’s really going to help me achieve that dream one day.

Ali from Azerbaijan

—Engineering and Science

I find my classes really interesting and I think this topic will be really important in my life and I want to work with it in the future. I like how the teachers are really passionate about their jobs and how they explain things to us, I really appreciate that.

Niko from Croatia

—Business, Finance, and Enterprise

I love how classes are full of hands-on activities. Dr. Saana is so experienced, and our discussions about computer science and machine learning go much deeper than I’ve ever had before.

Linh Anh Diep from Viet Nam

—Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

What I like most about my classes is when we collect data and discuss worldwide problems and the environmental effect of different designs. My favourite trip has been to the University of Cambridge; the view was amazing!

Hiver (Bo-Jung) from Taiwan

—Engineering and Science

Overall, my summer at Innovate was amazing and has benefited me in so many ways. I have learned new skills, met new people and cultures, built my confidence, and created lasting memories.

Ava from The United Kingdom

—Law and Global Justice

It’s really interesting to have capstone projects, and the courses are very engaging. I’m very glad that I participated in this summer school.

Jessica from Taiwan

—Medicine, Health, and Biomedical Science

Why choose us?

Learn from the best

Lecturers from prestigious universities such as Cambridge, Kings College London and more

Inspiring London location

Study at the world-famous University College London (UCL), at the heart of London

Industry visits

Prepare for your future career with visits and talks at top London companies

97%

Of our students would recommend Innovate Summer Academy to a friend

Core objectives & benefits

By the end of the programme, participants will be equipped with a robust understanding of business dynamics, financial systems, and entrepreneurial strategies, setting a strong foundation for future success.

Fundamental Business Knowledge

Establish a solid foundation in key business concepts, including management, marketing, and financial analysis. 

Practical Financial Skills

Develop expertise in financial planning, investment strategies, and economic analysis through hands-on exercises and simulations.

Entrepreneurial Thinking

Foster innovation and creativity by exploring entrepreneurial principles and developing business ideas and plans. 

Analytical and Strategic Thinking

Enhance problem-solving skills and strategic decision-making abilities in business contexts. 

Ethical and Professional Awareness

Cultivate an understanding of ethical practices and professional standards in business and finance. 

Core modules

Introduction to Business Management

This module introduces students to the core principles of business management, including organisational structures, leadership, and operational processes. Students will explore the roles of managers, decision-making hierarchies, and how businesses adapt to external challenges. By the end of this module, students will understand how effective management drives business success.

Financial Literacy and Management

Students will develop a solid understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment strategies. This module emphasises the importance of financial literacy in both personal and professional contexts. Using financial statements, students will learn to assess the health and performance of a business

Investment and Financial Markets

This module provides an introduction to the world of financial markets, investments, and portfolio management. Students will learn about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and market indices. By analysing market trends, they will understand the risks and rewards associated with different investment strategies. Case studies will highlight real-world investment scenarios and decision-making.

Global Trade and Economic Systems

This module examines the principles of international trade, global markets, and economic systems. Students will explore the roles of institutions such as the WTO and IMF in shaping global trade policies. Topics such as globalisation, tariffs, and economic inequalities will also be covered.

Digital Business and Technological Innovation

Technology is reshaping industries, and this module examines the impact of AI, blockchain, and e-commerce on business operations. Students will analyse how businesses adapt to digital transformations and leverage technology for growth. The module includes hands-on tasks such as designing technology-driven business solutions.

Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation

This module equips students with the skills to identify opportunities, develop business ideas, and bring innovative concepts to life. It covers the entrepreneurial mindset, risk management, and business planning. Students will learn how to evaluate market opportunities and create strategies to launch and scale startups.

Ethical Business Practices and Corporate Responsibility

Students will explore the role of ethics in shaping sustainable business practices and corporate responsibility. This module addresses challenges such as corruption, labor rights, and environmental impact. Through case studies, students will evaluate ethical dilemmas faced by businesses and propose responsible solutions.

Strategic Leadership and Decision Making

Leadership and strategic planning are essential for navigating complex business environments. This module teaches students how to assess risks, set goals, and lead teams effectively. They will explore decision-making processes, strategic frameworks, and change management. The focus is on building confidence as future leaders and decision-makers in the business world.

Sample timetable

Capstone Projects

The Capstone Project is the defining moment of every student’s journey at Innovate Summer Academy. It transforms classroom learning into a real-world challenge, giving students the opportunity to think creatively, act boldly, and showcase their talents.

Sample industry visits

BG Innovation Hub

BG Innovation Hub offers collaborative workspaces, maker facilities and Biolab resources for London creatives. Students meet founders, tour facilities, explore bioengineering startups, prototype bio-based products and join presentations, brainstorming and Q&A sessions.

Mixed Reality Room – Immersive Marketing 

Mixed Reality Rooms is a B2B immersive marketing platform creating gamified, metaverse-driven experiences that engage and educate buyers. Their CEO and CTO will showcase live demos and connect with students on stage.

Experiential Learning at Innovate

Alongside industry visits, our programme combines academic excellence with real-world application through project-based learning, museum and university visits, and guest speakers, connecting theory to practice.