** NOW OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS **
We are pleased to announce the return of our annual Founderships programme this year. Funded by the University of Surrey’s Student Enterprise, Future Generation and Santander Universities, the programme will give several entrepreneurs £1,000 – 3,000 in funding they need to work full-time on their businesses this summer.
For the first time we also have a top prize for the most outstanding application. The winning entrepreneur will be awarded a £5,000 Foundership, generously funded by Future Generation.
As part of the programme, we will be offering two Founderships specifically for Black founders (Black students and recent graduates within 2 years) and two Founderships specifically for LGBTQ+ founders (students and recent graduates within 2 years who identify as LGBTQ+). Research shows that entrepreneurs and businesses from these groups face barriers in gaining financial support and building their business*.
We want to challenge the inequalities faced by Black founders and LGBTQ+ founders, to create a more inclusive business community on campus and for the future.
There are several opportunities available and the competition is open to all. Winners will be announced at our end of year awards and shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the celebratory event.
Those whose pitches impressed the judges most will secure a place on the Founderships’ programme this summer and along with their cash prize will benefit from:
- A dedicated mentor from one of the 20 business experts in our Student Enterprise network
- 2 x online, interactive group development sessions delivered by Career Invest all about personal branding, career confidence and inclusive leadership.
- A bespoke workshop on Managing Finances for Entrepreneurs by EiR, Vincenzo Roberti & Kat Mack
- Opportunity to win a funded year of membership to SETsquared Surrey, our business incubator at the Surrey Research Park (or alternative incubator if your business type is not eligible for SETsquared)
The workshops, which incorporate a theme of diversity and inclusivity are aimed at helping you develop as a business person and entrepreneur.
Who is suitable for a Foundership?
This programme is suited to anyone with a tested business idea who has a clear roadmap to success and are committed to developing their idea this summer. You do not need to be involved in Student Enterprise already, however you will need to engage with us going forward if you are successful and we expect winners to attend the programme sessions and keep us up to date with their progress.
How can I apply?
Applications by way of an online application and initial 60 second video pitch opening after Easter and closing on 8th May.
Important dates:
– Submit your initial application below including a 60 second elevator pitch by Sunday 8th May
– Applicants will notified on Monday 9th May if they have been shortlisted
– Those who have been shortlisted will need to submit a 5 minute video pitch by the Thursday 12th May
– There will be no live pitch
– Winners will be announced at our end of year awards event on Thursday 19th May – please pencil this in your calendar now as shortlisted candidates will be expected to attend the awards on campus.
References
33 LGBTQ+ founders, entrepreneurs and VCs you should know | PitchBook
