A fast-paced, half day, hands-on challenge where you'll work to tackle a real industry problem and explore how great ideas become startups. Turn big ideas into real world solutions. Across one afternoon, you'll form a team and develop a solution to a genuine challenge. You'll hear from industry speakers, meet curious like-minded peers, learn skills such as design thinking, critical thinking, and problem solving and receive feedback from experienced mentors, right there in the room! By the end of the session, you'll walk away with:Practical tools you can use again and againA clearer sense of how to test and validate an ideaNew connections with like-minded, curious peopleTime with industry leaders and mentorsThe confidence to take your next stepA certificate of participation, plus a pointer to what's next — our Product Development Masterclass and Pitching WorkshopNo experience is needed, just curiosity, creativity and a willingness to get stuck in.This event is in-person only. In the Bayes Centre, Central Campus. With limited capacity applications will be on a first come, first served basis. If we reach maximum capacity, you can join the waitlist and we will contact you if a space becomes available. Who's it for?Open to all University of Edinburgh students and recent graduates (within two years of graduating), no matter what you study or your level of experience. Anyone who wants to explore, experiment and create real impact is welcome. Whether you've got a business idea brewing or you're just curious what this whole "startup" thing is about, this is for you. Next Sandbox Taking place: Wednesday 14th October, 1pm-6pm Hosted by: the University's Social Responsibility and Sustainability (SRS) Department. Industry Challenge: How might we create a product or service that reimagines sustainability engagement and education for the future?Sandbox two is now full but you can apply for the waitlist. If someone cancels we'll get in touch to let you know if you have a space. Apply the waitlist now Interested in setting a challenge of your own? We're always keen to hear from organisations who'd like to host a future Sandbox — get in touch to find out how your business could shape the next generation of problem-solvers. Email: students@ei.ed.ac.uk This article was published on Tuesday 11 August 2026