University to award Enterprise Scholarships to business savvy students

Award-winning Coventry University is to offer 30 Enterprise Scholarships to students looking to go to university next year (2010/11).

Coventry was named “Enterprising University of the Year” on Friday at the Midlands Business Awards 2010.

The scholarships are worth £4,500 over three years and aimed at students who wish to start up their own business and can demonstrate that they have been actively involved in young enterprise at college or sixth form.

Over the past three years, Coventry University has helped more than 30 students from a wide range of backgrounds to start, grow and develop their businesses.

Matthew Perkins, currently a third year scholarship student said:

“When I came to Coventry University I was awarded an Enterprise Scholarship which has been renewed each of my three academic years. The scholarship fund was a great help in the early days when I was starting my businesses. I have continued to invest the funds each year in the businesses and it has helped me to develop and grow them in a way which would not have been possible without a scholarship.

“The advice and support available from the University has been as valuable as the funding.”

Coventry University has a reputation for supporting new student business ventures having previously been Highly Commended and short listed at the Times Higher awards in 2008 and 2009 for the Entrepreneurial University of the year.

Dr Joan Lockyer, Principal Lecture at the Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship, said:

“Coventry University has created an environment in which students can develop and explore their creativity and enterprise skills.

“The financial support provided through the scholarship scheme and the other support mechanisms we offer can provide the kick start needed to bring a great idea into reality”.

The Institute of Applied Entrepreneurship at Coventry University (IAE) is home to all enterprise and entrepreneurship activities at Coventry University. The Institute offers the region – and its students, graduates and staff – a broad range of entrepreneurial support and services for every level and stage of business start-up and growth.

The BA/BSc degrees in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship offer a unique combination of theoretical content and advice from experienced entrepreneurs and the opportunity to start an individual or group venture. The students on the course can enhance their skills and experience the real world of business.

-Ends-

For more information regarding the scholarship and an application form please call the Institute on 024 7623 6001 or email David Wick at dwick@cad.coventry.ac.uk