A new privately funded scholarship opportunity is now available for students with entrepreneurial ambitions. UK-based company formation specialist 1st Formations has officially opened applications for its Business Scholarship 2026, aimed at supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students who plan to start or develop a business idea during or after their studies.
This news post explains who can apply, what the scholarship offers, how to apply, and how applications are assessed, so potential applicants worldwide can prepare a strong and timely submission.
What Type of Opportunity Is This?
The 1st Formations Business Scholarship is a merit-and-need-based bursary designed to support students who demonstrate entrepreneurial thinking and genuine financial need. It is not limited to business students only; instead, it focuses on ideas, motivation, and circumstances, making it accessible to students from a wide range of academic disciplines.
Scholarship Benefits – What Do You Get?
Under the 1st Formations Business Scholarship 2026:
- Up to 5 successful applicants will be selected
- Each recipient will receive a £500 bursary (approximately $750 USD)
- The funding can be used to support study-related costs, including:
- Course materials
- Textbooks
- Living or study-related expenses.
The scholarship is intended to ease financial pressure while students build the skills and knowledge needed to pursue entrepreneurial goals.
Eligibility Criteria – Can You Apply?
The scholarship is open to students who meet all of the following conditions:
- Must be currently studying or holding an offer for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree
- Must be enrolled at, or admitted to, a recognised UK or US academic institution
- Must be able to submit all required documents related to their current course of study.
There are no restrictions on nationality, but eligibility is tied strictly to current UK or US institutions.
How to Apply?
The application process is straightforward and email-based. Applicants must submit the following:
1# 500-word Supporting Statement
This must clearly explain: One business idea you would like to pursue during or after your studies, and your personal circumstances and why you require financial support
2# Proof of Academic Status
- Incoming students: A copy of your offer letter
- Current students: A letter of recommendation from a tutor or course coordinator, including contact details.
3# Academic Performance Evidence
-
A note of recent grades or exam results from your current course
Important notes:
- Recommendation letters must come from current UK or US institutions only
- Grades must relate to your current programme, not past or overseas qualifications (unless officially verified as part of an exchange programme).
How Applications Are Assessed?
Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria:
- The quality, clarity, and originality of the 500-word Supporting Statement
- The strength of the business idea and future potential
- Demonstrated financial need, as explained in the statement
- The academic recommendation (if applicable)
- The relevance and quality of current academic results.
This means applicants should focus equally on idea quality, personal context, and academic credibility.
Apply: https://www.uwe.ac.uk/courses/funding/scholarships-and-bursaries/1st-formations-business-scholarship
Application Dates to Remember
The last date to apply for the 1st Formations Business Scholarship 2026 is 31 January 2026. All eligible applications must be submitted by this date to be considered. Successful applicants will be contacted and officially announced by 27 February 2026, and the scholarship bursary will be awarded shortly after the announcement.