"The initiative, which returns following a successful 2025 programme, is designed to champion young entrepreneurs aged between 16 and 21, with a particular emphasis on those from under-served and under-represented communities. Organisers say the competition is not only about identifying promising ideas, but equipping young founders with the practical skills, confidence and networks needed to scale their ventures."
"In addition to the competitive element, participants will gain access to enterprise bootcamps delivered by PJF, providing hands-on support in refining business models, improving pitching techniques and developing commercial awareness, a key differentiator from more traditional pitch competitions."
"Each semi-final winner will receive a £1,000 grant and secure a place in the national final, where finalists will pitch to a high-profile judging panel chaired by Peter Jones CBE alongside Geoff Rowley, chief executive of FRP. The overall winner will receive a £10,000 grant, with the runner-up awarded £5,000, while all finalists will benefit from ongoing mentorship and support."
The Peter Jones Foundation and advisory firm FRP are launching the 2026 National Entrepreneur of the Year competition to discover and develop young UK business talent aged 16-21, with focus on underserved communities. Applicants submit applications with elevator pitch videos and progress through six regional semi-finals hosted by FRP across the UK. Winners present to business community judges and advance to a national final chaired by Peter Jones CBE and Geoff Rowley. Beyond competition, participants access enterprise bootcamps covering business model refinement, pitching techniques, and commercial awareness. Semi-final winners receive £1,000 grants; the overall winner receives £10,000, runner-up £5,000, with all finalists receiving ongoing mentorship. Previous participants include Ross Bailey of Appear Here and David Humpston of ViewPoint Videos.
#youth-entrepreneurship #business-competition #startup-support #underrepresented-communities #mentorship-programs
Read at Business Matters
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]