Competition

Supporting ambitious founders, early‑stage startups and innovation‑driven ventures

The Startup Fund aims to support students and recent alumni founders building high‑potential businesses that are ready to grow, attract customers, and establish sustainable commercial traction.

This fund aligns with the Santander X UK Awards 2026 categories and expectations, enabling applicants to enter a clearly defined venture pathway and prepare for national entrepreneurship competitions, investor engagement and growth opportunities. 

The Startup Fund focuses on:

• high‑growth business models
• product or service innovation
• market validation
• customer acquisition
• scalable operations
• investment readiness.

This opportunity sits alongside (but separate from) the OBC Freelance Fund, ensuring both types of creators receive targeted support relevant to their professional model.

Who this fund Is for

Early‑stage ideas

Business ideas, prototypes or early‑stage concepts developed by OU students or recent alumni — aligned with the Santander X University category for entrepreneurs preparing to launch. 

Suitable for:

• pre‑incorporation ventures
• R&D‑led concepts
• early MVP testing
• pre‑revenue startups.

We will select 5 ideas at this stage to receive a grant of £1000 each.

Established startups

Companies registered in the UK and within their first 18 months of trading, with at least two team members (solo founders may count advisors or staff as part of the team). 

Suitable for:

• early-revenue businesses
• teams refining their product-market fit
• innovation‑driven ventures
• founders preparing for pitching competitions or early investment.

We will select 3 startups at this stage to receive a grant of £5000 each.

Whether you’re preparing to launch or already developing an early-stage venture, the Fund will help you:

• Clarify your business idea and value proposition
• Build a strong startup portfolio
• Develop confidence, capability and commercial thinking
• Access equity‑free funding to move your business forward.

What you’ll need to do

You’ll use Validate, an online business‑development tool provided by The Open University, to build a portfolio before submitting your application.

Key dates:

• Q&A Session: Friday 15 May 2026 (details to follow)
• Applications close: Friday 12 June 2026
• Funding decisions announced: By 26 June 2026