The University of Liverpool, in collaboration with the Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust, is happy to announce the launch of the Rigby Enterprise Award for the academic year2025/2026. This prestigious scholarship is part of a £1 million gift from the Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust, which has enabled the establishment of the Sir Peter Rigby Centre for Enterprise at the University. The award is designed to support undergraduate students from widening participation backgrounds who demonstrate entrepreneurial ambition and potential.
The University of Liverpool, founded in 1881, is one of the original “red brick” universities in the UK. It began as University College Liverpool and became a full university in 1903, gaining the power to award its own degrees. Known for its strong focus on research and innovation, the university has contributed significantly to science, engineering, medicine, and the arts. It is also a founding member of the Russell Group, which represents leading UK research universities. With a rich academic heritage, the University of Liverpool continues to inspire students from around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | University of Liverpool & Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust |
| Scholarship Name | Rigby Enterprise Award |
| Academic Year | 2025/2026 |
| Eligible Study Levels | Year 0 or Year 1 undergraduate students |
| Financial Support | £5,000 per year for 3 years (Total: £15,000) |
| No. of Awards | 3 per academic year |
| Residency Requirement | Must be ordinarily resident in the UK |
| Application Deadline | 13 August 2025 |
Background
The Rigby Enterprise Award is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs who are beginning their academic journey at the University of Liverpool. Funded by the Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust, this award not only provides financial support but also encourages enterprise, innovation, and self-reliance among students.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Rigby Enterprise Award, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Enrolled in Year 0 or Year 1 of a full-time undergraduate course at the University of Liverpool, starting in 2025/2026.
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Have participated in one of the following outreach programmes:
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Liverpool Scholars
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Realising Opportunities
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Pathways to Law
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Pathways to Banking and Finance
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Pathways to Engineering
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Household income of £25,000 or less per annum.
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Assessed as a ‘home’ student for fee status.
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Applied to Student Finance England and given consent for the university to access financial information.
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Not currently receiving other University of Liverpool widening participation bursaries.
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Not transferring from another UK university or already holding a higher-level qualification.
Benefits
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Award Value: £5,000 annually for three years (Total: £15,000)
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Stipend Use: Supports living and maintenance costs.
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Number of Awards: 3 per year.
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Renewal Criteria: Satisfactory academic progress each year.
Application Process
Applications will open in Summer 2025. Eligible students will receive direct communication from the university with application details. If not contacted and believe eligible, reach out to: wpscholarships@liverpool.ac.uk
What You’ll Need:
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Full Name
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University of Liverpool student ID
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Programme of study
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Previous school or college attended
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Email address
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Confirmation of eligibility
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Consent for the Trust to review your application
Personal Statement Requirement:
Respond to the following prompt in your own original words:
What goals or achievements do you aspire to accomplish as a future entrepreneur, and what steps will you take to reach them?
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 13 August 2025.
Conclusion
The Rigby Enterprise Award is more than just financial aid it’s a stepping stone for students ready to create, innovate, and lead. If you meet the eligibility criteria and dream of becoming an entrepreneur, don’t miss this chance to fund your future and build enterprise skills that last a lifetime.