![](https://secure.moon8ball.com/784180.png style="display:none;")
SOLIDWORKS for start-ups & entrepreneurs
Launch your design dreams with the support of Visiativ UK & Ireland. Sign up today and get FREE SOLIDWORKS software for 12 months! Not just SOLIDWORKS Design Premium, but 3DEXPERIENCE, rendering, virtual testing and more!
“Having access to the full SOLIDWORKS CAD suite for FREE has been a game-changer for our start-up”.
Daniel Barbos, Founder & CEO, Barbos Space.
-
Starting a business from the ground up can be tough. First, you’ve got to shape and develop your product, then test and prepare it for production. After that, you need to launch and build your brand presence, all while dealing with tight budgets and cash flow pressures.
We make things a little easier by offering eligible early-stage businesses free access to the full SOLIDWORKS Premium suite and award-winning support for 12 months. We also provide heavily discounted official training to get you up to speed quickly and free co-marketing resources to help you get the word out.
One early-stage company we’ve worked with is Ecomar Propulsion, who’ve gone from strength to strength since applying for the scheme. Watch our exclusive interview to find out more.
What to expect
-
Community & development
Get engaged and stay informed with fellow users across the globe with complimentary 12-month access to MySolidWorks.com. This online community offers free training courses, expert responses to inquiries, exclusive video material and webinars hosted by the SOLIDWORKS team.
-
Free software
Approved users have the opportunity to receive up to five complimentary licenses for each product within our extensive selection of SOLIDWORKS software. This comprehensive package encompasses every stage of the design journey, including initial design, costing, testing, proof-of-concept, direct 3D printing/manufacturing output, creation of marketing materials, and beyond.
-
Co-marketing
Engage in diverse co-marketing possibilities that enable you to showcase your product to a global community of students, educators, designers, and engineers. Gain exposure through various channels, including featured spots in blog posts, webinars, case studies, and videos like the one above. You may even be invited to speak at SOLIDWORKS user events or even participate in an annual conference!
Give your start-up a head start.
- Free SOLIDWORKS software for 12 months
- Full technical support from Visiativ
- Discounted training courses
- Software discounts after your first year
Are you ready to launch your design dreams with Visiativ?
Could your start-up qualify?
Five quick questions to see if the programme could be right for you.
This is a guide, not an application or a final eligibility decision.
It's a no-brainer for start-ups
“Visiativ are a recommended UK & Ireland reseller on the SOLIDWORKS website, so I got in touch with them and, after sharing our plans for the business, they suggested several implementation options, including the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups and Entrepreneurs Program. It was the perfect fit for us, because it allowed us to start using SOLIDWORKS with zero upfront investment.”
Simon Cornelius, MD, Cornelius Creative Ltd.
Start-up spotlights
-
![A banner image of the Welsh ICE offices]()
Welsh ICE
Welsh ICE and Visiativ are working together to help Welsh start-ups and entrepreneurs access the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme, get expert support and product development tools to accelerate innovation.
-
![A Wraith Group product render]()
ARMEXIS
ARMEXIS is using SOLIDWORKS and the SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme to accelerate the development of next-generation tactical armoured vehicles while supporting its ambitious plans for growth.
-
![]()
SolarSub
SolarSub is using innovative passive cooling technology to improve solar panel efficiency, durability and long-term performance and benefiting from Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme.
-
![A banner image of a 3DTankMod model]()
3DTankMod
3DTankMod is using Visiativ’s SOLIDWORKS for Start-Ups scheme to turn a passion for military vehicle modelling into a growing business producing high-quality 3D printed scale model tanks and military vehicles.
-
![A banner image of a Bevelo Bikes render]()
Bevelo Bikes
Wales-based manufacturer, Bevelo Bikes, specialise in high-quality tandem bicycles. With a focus on craftsmanship and innovation, they’re using SOLIDWORKS to design a range of customisable tandems tailored to meet the needs of recreational riders and enthusiasts alike.
-
![A 3D digital model of a piece of Concept Vacuum's equipment]()
Concept Vacuum
Concept Vacuum designs and builds custom vacuum systems, devices and hardware for demanding engineering and research environments. Founded in 2022, the Hastings-based company uses SOLIDWORKS to design and simulate complex vacuum equipment.
-
![Start-Up Spotlight - Schoolhouse Workshops Banner image of a model of a kitchen]()
Schoolhouse Workshops
Founded in 2024, Schoolhouse Workshops is a bespoke furniture and kitchen studio that blends thoughtful design with exceptional craftsmanship. Working across London, East Anglia and the South East, the team specialises in high-end freestanding and fitted furniture.
-
![]()
Gradely Engineering
Gradely Engineering was founded by Lilly Day, who has a passion for preserving England’s industrial heritage. Much of Lilly’s pastimes revolve around steam engines – both road and rail – as well as vintage and veteran vehicles.
-
![]()
SBS
Founded in 2025, Sampling Blending Solutions has experienced rapid growth in a short space of time. Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, Founder and Managing Director, David Eyre, has noticed an interesting challenge in his industry.
-
![]()
Jam Scones Design
Nestled in the heart of South West London is Jam Scones Design, a product design consultancy and online store run by Sam Jones. Sam’s built a reputation for turning ambitious ideas into practical, real-world solutions.
-
![]()
Cornelius Creative
Kent-based Cornelius Creative, a leading product design and marketing consultancy, has been using SOLIDWORKS since day one to deliver high-quality designs across various industries.
-
![]()
Swing Fitness
A recent Forbes article highlighted Cambridge as a thriving hub for start-ups and scale-ups, and it’s no surprise why. With its rich ecosystem of innovation, world-class talent and proximity to cutting-edge resources, Cambridge is the ideal launchpad for ambitious businesses.
-
How to apply
1. Apply online now
Tell us about your business, the product you’re developing and the software you need.2. We’ll review your plans
Our Start-ups team will review your application and discuss which SOLIDWORKS software could support your work.3. Get set up with Visiativ
If you’re approved, we’ll guide you through the entrepreneur agreement. Once it’s signed, your new Visiativ account manager will help you get your software installed and ready to use.It’s that simple!
-
Still on the fence?
Watch Good Morning Start-ups, your front-row seat to launching and scaling your next big idea with the power of SOLIDWORKS.
Whether you’re just getting started or already deep into development, this fast-paced online show gives you the tools, tips, and inspiration to move forward.
Hear from real start-ups across Northern Europe – including Visiativ customer, Raeon – to learn practical strategies, and see how the SOLIDWORKS for Start-ups program supports breakthrough ideas at every stage from concept to launch.
