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.
The standard of the applications had increased since last year, many of which addressed real-world challenges with novel approaches.
‘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 Sheffield Innovation Spine
This strong response underscored 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.
Pitching Day 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.
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
We are very grateful for their generous insights and contribution to the Awards Showcase process. Our thanks goes to Clive Humby, Charlotte Thompson and Chris Dalrymple.
Awards Categories Finalists
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?
- 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).
- 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.
Attend the live event!
The winners of each category will present at our Awards Showcase - all are welcome.
