The Service Innovator Award (VFA 2026) | GrantGunner
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The Service Innovator Award (VFA 2026)

Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC), University of Manchester
Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC), University of Manchester

The Service Innovator Award is a flagship award within the Freelancing Track of the Venture Further Awards 2026, hosted by the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC) at the University of Manchester. This award celebrates outstanding solo practitioners and independent professionals who provide unique B2B or B2C services. With over £200,000 in equity-free prize money and £150,000+ in tech/software perks available across all tracks, the competition culminates in a Grand Finale on June 16, 2026 where finalists pitch live to a panel of investors and entrepreneurs.

Who can apply

Open to current University of Manchester students (all levels), postdoctoral researchers, and graduates from 2024 onwards. Ventures must have been registered on or after December 1, 2024. Franchises and business buy-outs are ineligible.

Perks & benefits

  • Tech/software perks package valued at over £150,000 as part of the wider Venture Further Awards
  • Live pitching opportunity to panel of investors and entrepreneurs
  • Access to MEC support programmes and mentorship
  • Networking with the entrepreneurship community at University of Manchester
  • Access to Enterprise Team for draft review and business plan support

Key contacts

Sources

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