Marketing Toolkit – The Open University in Scotland

Our 2026 programme is now open and we’re on the lookout for staff, students and graduates from The Open University in Scotland who are ready to bring their cutting-edge solutions to real-world problems.

We’ve put together a campaign toolkit to help you spread the word to aspiring academic innovators from your institution.

Your marketing toolkit

The Open University in Scotland is a hotbed for innovation and creative talent, exemplified by the success of OU graduate, Laura Ripley, Founder of immersive events company, Northern Frights. 

Laura’s journey shows how an idea sparked during study can grow into a thriving creative business. We want to see more OU-led ventures reach the national stage and are now searching for the next wave of visionary projects. 

To help us achieve this, we’ve created this tailored toolkit which includes everything you could need to get the word out to your students, staff and recent graduates. Click the links below to access the full suite of materials: 

Guide for applicants (PDF)
Promotional text
Social media
imagery
Poster & plasma
screen visuals
Logos &
brand guidelines
News story

Dates for your diary

Notable dates, including programme and key events in the Converge calendar.

28 January

Converge 2026 programme open for applications.

5 February

“All about Converge”

This online session will provide potential applicants with advice on the submission process, what our judges look for and hints and tips for writing a strong proposal.   This workshop will be repeated throughout the application process, and delivered in-person on campuses.

 

2 April

Closing date for applications.

All applications must be submitted by 12 noon via the Converge website.

12 May

2026 cohort announced

W/c 25 May

Regional training

All participants will attend a day’s training in their region in either Aberdeen, Glasgow or Edinburgh.

w/c 1 June

Entrepreneurial business training

Converge, Create Change & Net Zero Challenges training, and the pitching showcase

 

w/c 8 June

Entrepreneurial business training

KickStart Challenge

30 July

Business plan submission deadline

To progress in the programme, participants must submit a business plan (Converge, Net Zero and Create Change) or business case (KickStart) by 12 noon on 30 July.

3 September

Finalists announced

8-9 September

Finalist filming and photoshoot

Applicants are encouraged to make sure they keep these dates free!

9 September

Investment training

For finalists in the Create Change, Net Zero and Converge Challenges

1 October

Event: Converge Awards

About us

We work with universities across Scotland to help academic innovators turn their ideas into a thriving, sustainable businesses with:

  • Expert-led training for start-ups and spinouts
  • Peer networking with access to business professionals
  • Opportunity to win equity-free cash prizes and business support
  • Test and validate your business proposition

If Converge is new to you, follow the links below for more information, or contact enterprise@convergechallenge.com for a chat to see how we can support you.

What’s new in 2026?

  • New streamlined application process
  • New special prizes to be announced
  • University Hub coming soon
Our programme
Business workshops
Founder stories