Currently, close to one million young people in the UK aged 18 to 24 are not in work or training, a challenge that calls for real action. Reed believes that creating opportunities for meaningful work is vital, not only for individual wellbeing but for the strength of the wider economy.
We want to change the narrative. Instead of waiting for traditional career paths to open up, we encourage young people to forge their own paths.
The Reed Entrepreneurs Fund is our way of supporting emerging young founders. Sixty six promising entrepreneurs will receive £20,000, expert mentorship, and the platform they need to grow their business and overcome early challenges.
If you have already taken the brave first steps of launching a business, we want to help you push forward. Successful applicants will receive:
Financial backing: £20,000 cash to invest straight into your company’s growth.
Strategic guidance: Direct mentorship from business leaders who have navigated the challenges of scaling a business.
Unmatched exposure: A national platform to present your vision and build your brand presence.
Momentum: The confidence and resources needed to propel your startup to the next critical stage.
We want to hear from driven individuals who have already begun to prove their concept. To apply for the fund, you must meet the following requirements:
You are between 18 and 26 years old when you submit your application.
You reside in the UK and hold the legal right to work here.
Your business has been actively trading for less than three years.
You have secured at least one paying customer.
You operate a registered UK business bank account.
You can commit to the full terms outlined in our official application pack.
Phase One: Initial SubmissionYou will need to provide a summary of your business model and goals. The deadline for this first step is Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
Phase Two: Deep DiveIn August 2026, we will ask our shortlisted candidates to share a more detailed breakdown of their business operations and growth plans.
The Final PitchIn September, our top finalists will travel to London for a live, in-person pitch event. Here, you will present your business directly to our panel, and we will announce our ultimate winners.
Apply here.
Applications close Tuesday 7th of July 2026.
What is the Reed Entrepreneurs Fund?
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