Inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs
Building on a successful first year, the second annual Awards Showcase competition, generously supported by Santander Universities, demonstrates significant growth and impact within the University's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The call for innovative and creative solutions across diverse sectors – including environmental impact, health, sports, manufacturing, tech, arts, and creative industries – resonated strongly, resulting in over 65 applications submitted by ambitious students from across the University.
Notably, the standard of these applications was exceptionally high, showcasing a wealth of imaginative and well-developed business ideas, many of which addressed real-world challenges with novel approaches.
This strong response underscored the growing entrepreneurial spirit within the student body and the competition's increasing reputation as a valuable platform for aspiring founders to gain recognition and potentially secure a share of the £14,000 prize pool to bring their visions to life.
Judging Panel
The awards panel, comprised of three regional entrepreneurial figures, meticulously reviewed all finalists during a pitch day held at the Start-up Studio.
Leveraging their extensive experience, they assessed each venture based on the identification of a significant root problem, clear segmentation of the target customer, a well-articulated solution, and a realistic plan for utilising prize money.
Their expertise proved invaluable in discerning which ventures possessed the highest growth potential and would deliver the most far-reaching industry impact.
We are very grateful for their generous insights and contribution to the Awards Showcase process. Our thanks goes to:
Clive Humby OBE
Visiting University Professor | Investor, advisor and former CEO
‘Being on the panel for the Emerge programme was a rewarding experience. The diversity and quality of the business pitches left me feeling uplifted and filled with a contagious energy. It's inspiring to see such promising ventures.’
Charlotte Thompson
Project Director of ºù«Ӱҵ Innovation Spine
The winning teams stood out for their focus, originality, and clear sense of purpose. They demonstrated a deep understanding of the problems they’re trying to solve, and each showed real potential to create meaningful impact in their sector. I’m looking forward to seeing how they grow and thrive in the months and years ahead. The quality of ideas and clarity of thinking made for a genuinely energising day. Credit to the Emerge team for the fantastic support they’ve given these founders.
Chris Dalrymple
Exited founder | Investor and advisor
Awards Categories
We offered funding across three categories depending on the business stage:
- Conceptual Idea: 3 x £1,000
You've got a great idea, but will enough people actually want it?
Finalists
- Idea Development: 2 x £3,000
You've moved beyond just an idea—you're building something real! This category is for those who are actively creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
Finalists
- Gone to Market: 1 x £5,000
You've launched your business and are formally registered. This category is for established Start-ups who have proven they can attract customers and generate income and are looking for funding for continued development.
Finalists
