Centre For Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Christ Church and Blenheim Chalcot, in collaboration with the University of Oxford, are establishing a world-leading Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at 37 St Giles. The Centre is designed to inspire, educate, and empower undergraduate and postgraduate students from across the University. Set to open in early 2025, the Centre is committed to fostering the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation potential of students from every discipline.

By connecting Oxford’s academic community with established entrepreneurs, venture specialists, and experienced alumni, we aim to support students as they develop skills, gain insights, and launch ventures in fields spanning natural sciences, social impact, deep technology, and civic innovation. Our ultimate goal is to create a dynamic environment with the space and resources for students to transform their ideas into impactful ventures. This Centre aligns with Oxford’s vision to advance as a major global innovation hub, meeting the growing demand for practical entrepreneurial education, while providing pathways that support the University's commitment to research-based innovation and societal advancement.

The Centre’s educational programme will encompass a curriculum of lectures and interactive workshops with experts, covering problem discovery, venture models, value proposition, and intellectual property. Funded vacation programmes will offer students the opportunity to work together on their own ideas and initiatives. 

Professor Sarah Foot, Dean of Christ Church, said: “Since I became Dean last year, we have been preparing to celebrate our first 500 years in 2025 and, more importantly, looking to the future and building plans to serve students for the next 500 years. The project announced today is a vital part of this work, helping students and academics make the most of the huge entrepreneurial potential within Christ Church, and the wider University.” 

Professor Irene Tracey, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, said: “I’m delighted at the launch of the 37 St. Giles Centre. As our review of university spin-out businesses for government highlighted last year, infrastructure is vital if a city is to become a hub of spin-out creation. This Centre will help us achieve our ambition of making Oxford a global innovation hub.” 

Charles Mindenhall, Founding Partner of Blenheim Chalcot and Christ Church Alumnus, said: "Innovative thinking and entrepreneurship lie at the heart of growing a successful economy and productive society. That is why Blenheim Chalcot is so keen to champion and support this initiative, which we hope will inspire and equip Christ Church and Oxford students to pursue entrepreneurial careers and endeavours. We look forward to making our entrepreneurial programmes and leaders available to help educate students on the skills and capabilities needed to build great new businesses and organisations."