Ministers have launched a scheme to help entrepreneurial graduates from around the world move to Britain and start a business.
The Sirius Programme, managed by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), is a 12-month start-up support package that aims to attract graduates to the UK and help them get their business idea off the ground.
Successful applicants will receive support including investment, mentoring and logistical help with relocating to the UK.
The programme aims to attract hundreds of entrepreneurs into the UK in its first two years, with each of the resulting businesses creating new jobs, bringing in foreign investment and boosting the UK economy.
Sirius was launched to an audience of 175 students and graduates from 43 countries at UKTI’s Entrepreneurs’ Festival, which has been taking place in Manchester over the last few days.
Trade minister Lord Green said: “The UK is one of the top places in the world to become an entrepreneur and we want to attract talented graduates to set up and build their business here. UKTI's Sirius scheme will be one of the most comprehensive start-up support packages offered globally, and the best in Europe.
"The popularity of the Entrepreneurs’ Festival proves that there is a wealth of exciting business ideas out there with massive potential, as well as a great appetite to start up in the UK. Ensuring that Britain becomes the country of choice for talented graduates to start and grow their businesses will help our economy to grow, boost productivity and create jobs.”