At the Arden Enterprise Incubator, we champion bold ideas that tackle real-world problems—and HealthBlokk is one of the most promising ventures currently emerging from our student founder community. 

Founded by Shideh Heravi, an Arden Psychology student with a decade of experience in digital product design and user experience, HealthBlokk is on a mission to transform the way people with food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions navigate eating out. 

The problem is all too familiar: more than 30% of the population lives with a dietary restriction. Whether it’s gluten, dairy, nuts, or a specific health goal, the stress of unclear menus, limited options, or being misunderstood often makes eating out feel like a chore — and a gamble. 

HealthBlokk is building a solution: a personalised food discovery platform that will recommend trusted restaurants and meals based on your specific dietary needs. But more than an app, it’s a movement for dignity, ease, and inclusivity in dining. 

Shideh explains it well:  

“I’ve always loved turning complex problems into simple, meaningful solutions. HealthBlokk is for people who are tired of asking, explaining, or compromising—just to eat a meal with friends.” 

Currently, HealthBlokk team is refining its concept, and preparing for a beta product launch. But even before the tech is ready, Arden’s community can play a major role in shaping the future of this platform. 

Here’s how you can support HealthBlokk: 

This isn’t just another student startup. It’s a chance to help create something meaningful, inclusive, and grounded in real-life needs. Together, we can make eating out easier, safer, and more joyful for everyone. 

Interested in helping? Contact the Arden Enterprise Incubator at aei@arden.ac.uk 

If you think you need a big budget, years of experience, or even a business degree to become an entrepreneur, meet Caine Monroy.

At just nine years old, Caine built a cardboard arcade in his dad’s auto parts shop in East Los Angeles. Using nothing but scrap cardboard, tape, and imagination, he created a functioning game space—then sat patiently, day after day, waiting for customers. 

One day, a filmmaker named Nirvan Mullick walked in, became Caine’s first customer, and was so blown away by the kid’s creativity that he made a short documentary. That video went viral. Within days, hundreds of people lined up to play Caine’s games. Over $240,000 was raised for his college fund. More importantly, a global movement—The Imagination Foundation—was launched to support creative entrepreneurship in kids around the world. 

Why does this matter to you, an Arden student entrepreneur? 

Caine didn’t wait for perfect conditions. He didn’t worry about funding, business plans, or market validation. He just started. 

Too many students get stuck in “planning mode.” They hesitate to launch because they’re waiting for more time, more money, or more confidence. But action—however small—is what builds momentum. Caine’s story reminds us that resourcefulness, grit, and a willingness to be seen are often more important than formal know-how. 

So what can you do today with what you’ve got? 

Start small. Test an idea. Put something into the world—even if it’s made of cardboard. You never know who might walk through the door. 

Watch Caine’s story here: Caine’s Arcade – 10-minute doc