Santander X UK Awards Offer Cash Prizes for Business Growth

Competition supports university ventures, startups and SMEs across the UK

The Santander X UK Awards is a national pitching competition run by Santander, designed to support early-stage and growing businesses. Initially focused on university entrepreneurs, it now includes startups and small and medium-sized enterprises.

The awards provide equity-free cash to help businesses with start-up costs or further development. Three categories are available: University, Startup and SME.

In the University category, first place receives £20,000, followed by £10,000 for second place and £5,000 for third. The Startup category offers £25,000 for first place, £15,000 for second and £5,000 for third. In the SME category, prizes are £30,000, £20,000 and £5,000 respectively. A People’s Choice Award of £15,000 is also presented at the national final.

Eligibility varies by category. The University category is open to early-stage businesses linked to a UK university, with at least one member connected as a student, employee or recent graduate. The Startup category targets UK registered businesses trading for up to 18 months, while the SME category is for firms trading longer with higher revenues and between 2 and 250 employees.

Funding can be used to start or develop business activities.