Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) and Dorset Business Angels (DBA) is launching a new collaboration designed to help student and graduate entrepreneurs become investment-ready, directly connecting AUB’s Innovation Studio with DBA’s local network of angel investors.
The initiative is being led by Mehjabeen Patrick, AUB’s Chief Finance and Operating Officer, who's recently joined Dorset Business Angels as a member and angel investor.
The partnership directly aligns with AUB's Strategy 2030+, which was launched earlier this year, supporting its core ambition to become the Entrepreneurial Arts University.
Under Strategic Pillar 3: Research and Enterprise, AUB commits to equipping every learner with the business acumen, confidence, and network necessary to launch businesses and drive innovation.
By bridging the gap between campus incubation and early-stage angel investment, the partnership will deliver on AUB’s commitment to connecting students and alumni with investors, keeping creative talent and commercial enterprise within the region.
Mehjabeen brings 25 years of finance and investment experience across banking, non-for-profits, and the creative sector. Her background includes personal angel investments, sitting on investment committees for the Social Tech Venture Fund and British Design Fund, and chairing the investment advisory committee for the City Fund (run by the Bristol and Bath Regional Council).
“I've got a good network of prolific angel investors around me and a real interest in investing, because of my background setting up funds, running funds, and backing companies," says Mehjabeen. “Joining DBA means I can be a bit more active, keep an eye on what's coming through, and see where I can get more involved.”
Mehjabeen’s dual position aims to demystify creative industries for mainstream investors while helping emerging talent at AUB pitch effectively to funding networks.
Welcoming her involvement, DBA Chairman Don McQueen says, "Mehjabeen brings exactly the kind of experience we love to see in our membership – a genuine track record as an investor, combined with a deep understanding of how creative businesses actually work.
“Having her at AUB means we've now got a real ally inside one of the region's leading universities, helping us reach founders earlier and helping them get investment ready. We're delighted to welcome her.”
The partnership will focus on structured support to help AUB Innovation Studio ventures pitch, scale, and secure funding across the region.
