Every Grant & Funding Option for UK Student Startups in 2026

University-Level Funding

### Enterprise Grants

Most UK universities offer small grants (£500-£5,000) through their enterprise or innovation departments. Check with your university's careers service or business school.

### Startup Accelerators

Over 60 UK universities now run startup accelerators offering mentoring, workspace, and seed funding. Notable ones include:

National Competitions

### Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Awards

Up to £75,000 in prizes across multiple categories. Open to all UK university students.

### Shell LiveWIRE

Offers up to £10,000 in funding plus mentorship for young entrepreneurs aged 16-30.

### The Prince's Trust Enterprise Programme

For 18-30 year olds, offering mentoring, funding up to £5,000, and business support.

Government Funding

### Innovate UK Young Innovators Awards

£5,000 grant plus 12 months of business support. Specifically for 18-30 year olds with innovative ideas.

### Start Up Loans

Government-backed personal loans of up to £25,000 at 6% fixed interest, plus free mentoring.

Equity-Free Funding

### Bethnal Green Ventures (Tech for Good)

Up to £20,000 equity-free funding for tech-for-good startups, plus a 12-week accelerator.

### UnLtd Awards

£500-£15,000 for social entrepreneurs, with additional support and mentoring.

How to Apply Successfully

1. Start early — most programmes have long application windows but fill up quickly

2. Get feedback — ask mentors, lecturers, and other founders to review your application

3. Show traction — even 50 users or a working prototype dramatically increases your chances

4. Be specific about use of funds — vague budgets are a red flag for grant panels

5. Apply to multiple programmes — the acceptance rate for most is 5-15%, so cast a wide net