University Startup Validation Lab

WHAT IS IT?

Got a startup idea? Before you spend months building it, make sure it’s the right one.

The Student Validation Lab is a hands-on, practical 3-hour workshop designed to help YOU test, validate, and strengthen your startup idea using proven methods. You’ll learn to uncover real customer problems, test key assumptions, and gather the insights you need to make smarter decisions - fast.

Too often, early founders build products that nobody truly needs. This lab helps you avoid that trap by applying structured validation techniques that reduce risk and boost your chances of success.

By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with practical tools, data-driven insights, and a clear next-step plan to refine your idea into a viable business.

WHO IS IT FOR?

This workshop is open to students and alumni who want to turn ideas into actionable, tested concepts, no matter what stage you’re at.

• Perfect if you have a startup idea and want to test it before investing time or money
• Ideal for early founders looking to strengthen their business model with real evidence

💡 Bonus: all participants automatically become eligible for the CityVentures Startup Support Package.

WHO IS LEADING THE WORKSHOP?

The Validation Lab will be led by Ralph La Fontaine, Head of Entrepreneurship at City St George’s University. With a background as a successful founder in digital learning and extensive experience across product and innovation roles, Ralph brings a wealth of practical insight to early-stage ventures. He’s passionate about helping startups move fast, test assumptions, and build towards product-market fit with clarity and confidence. His approach focuses on laying strong foundations for long-term success—making this session a must for anyone serious about turning ideas into scalable impact.

WHO IS THE ORGANISER?

This event is brought to you by City Ventures, the startup hub for all entrepreneurs in the City of London. Our mission is simple: to give you the skills, knowledge, and opportunities you need to explore ideas, grow ventures, and build better businesses.

Through our events, programmes, and community, we make startup support accessible to everyone, because we believe entrepreneurship should be a driver of opportunity and social mobility. Whether you’re just curious or already building something, City Ventures is here to back your journey. More information and events at: www.cityventures.co.uk