£10,000 Grant and Business Support Programme for Early-Stage Social Innovators
Early-stage entrepreneurs across the UK with a clear social or environmental mission are invited to apply for EASI26 – the Entrepreneurs' Award in Social Innovation – before the 31st March 2026 deadline.
An initiative in conjunction with the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs, EASI actively supports purpose-driven innovators tackling societal challenges, from climate resilience and sustainable systems, to inequality, safety, healthcare and inclusive technology.
Now in its fifth year, the EASI programme provides direct financial support in conjunction with a tailored package of business support over a 12-month period.
The EASI26 Winner will receive:
£10,000 financial grant from the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs Trust.
12-month business support package from the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs including:
Constructive feedback from experienced judges
A dedicated mentor
Access to a network of experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders
Expert-led masterclasses and tailored guidance
Introductions to potential partners, funders and collaborators
Opportunity to participate in the EASI26 Showcase
All finalists will be invited to join the EASI26 cohort and receive the 12-month business support package designed to accelerate their journey to impact.
Judy Hadden, Past Master Entrepreneur and EASI founder said: "EASI backs early stage founders who are building solutions the world genuinely needs. The combination of funding and business support, mentorship and access to our network, is designed to enable early-stage entrepreneurs to accelerate their impact and strengthen the foundations of their business. If you believe you fit this description, we really want to hear from you, please apply for EASI26.”
EASI25 winner, Carbon Cell is tackling one of the most ubiquitous, hated materials in packaging, expanded polystyrene. Their biochar-based foam is carbon-negative, structurally strong and mouldable, targeting insulation, acoustic panels and fabrication foams.
Eden Harrison, Carbon Cell Co-Founder, said: “The EASI £10K grant significantly widened our manufacturing scope, from ‘microwave’ experiments to industrially relevant heat press tooling – unlocking trials with European manufacturing partners. Mentoring with Paul Eveleigh has been the single most valuable part of the programme, along with introductions to potential funders through the programme’s networking events.”
Who should apply
EASI26 is open to early-stage, purpose-driven entrepreneurs based in the UK that are developing innovative and scalable solutions that address social or environmental challenges. Applicants should demonstrate both a clear mission, market research, and a credible pathway to sustainable impact.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch at the EASI26 Final at The Skyline London, on 18th May 2026. The EASI26 Winner will be announced on the night and the award officially presented at the Award Presentation and Dinner at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall on 1st July 2026.
Applications close on 31st March 2026. To apply, visit: https://www.entrepreneurscompany.org/easi
