New awards programme launched to support young entrepreneurs in Gloucester

University of Gloucestershire and Gloucester City Council have teamed up to launch a new awards programme designed to champion young entrepreneurs in Gloucester. The programme will support them to develop financially sustainable businesses that bring positive impact to the city centre.

Open to Gloucester-based emerging entrepreneurs aged 18-30, the Do Your Thing initiative welcomes individuals at various stages of the start-up process, from those developing an idea to those trading for fewer than three years.

Applicants can apply in a format that suits them for the chance to receive expert guidance, gain valuable exposure and win one of five awards worth up to £2,000. Depending on their needs, winners may receive business grants, stock and equipment, or tailored professional guidance.

Entries will be assessed on the potential each idea has to benefit Gloucester and its surrounding areas, with shortlisted candidates paired with a dedicated mentor to help refine their proposals. The programme will culminate in a Business Showcase at the University’s City Campus in March 2026, where entrepreneurs will present their businesses to the public and local business leaders.

Alex Cottrell, Head of External Relationships at University of Gloucestershire, said: “We’re really excited to launch this UKSPF-funded programme which will empower Gloucester’s next generation of entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. By working with Gloucester City Council and key stakeholders from across the city, we’re creating a vibrant network that supports innovation, enterprise and growth.

“This initiative is about more than business – it’s about unlocking potential across the Gloucester community, driving creativity and building a stronger future for our community.”

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “Young entrepreneurs and small businesses are the beating heart of our city centre, and we’re committed to giving them the support they need to thrive. Their ideas will help to boost Gloucester’s local economy, attract new visitors, and encourage students to stay and build their future here.

“With major regeneration projects like The Forum, the University’s city centre campus, and the Food Dock bringing more people into the city, this is an exciting time for Gloucester. This scheme offers a fantastic opportunity to be part of that journey and to help our city flourish.”

The awards have been shaped with input from young people through focus groups held across Gloucester by Chispa CIC and The Music Works. These sessions, delivered on behalf of University of Gloucestershire, helped shape the branding, application process and overall approach ahead of launch.

Alice Watson, CEO of Chispa CIC, said: “The Do Your Thing Young Entrepreneurs Award has been co-designed with young people to support real ambition and innovation. We encourage anyone with a business idea to apply – it’s a great opportunity to be part of Gloucester’s emerging young entrepreneurs’ scene and we are excited to see where this goes next!”

Mikel Medley, Youth Support Manager at The Music Works, commented: “Young people need to see that the city is looking to invest in them, and in return they will help to develop and bring positive economic growth to their communities.”

Tieti Lumakangilu, winner of a previous entrepreneur awards programme at The Music Works and CEO of Reing Fashion, said: “I had help understanding how creative businesses work a lot more. I got the opportunity to be visible in Gloucestershire’s creative community, beyond my immediate community.”

The initiative forms part of the University’s Start and Grow Enterprise Programme, which provides free workshops, one-to-one guidance and networking opportunities for early-stage Gloucester-based businesses.

Applications for the Do Your Thing initiative are open until Friday, 30 January 2026. To be eligible, applicants must live in Gloucester or plan to start their business there, be aged 18-30, and be ready to launch their venture before March 2026.