ENTERPRISING graduates can get a grant to get their businesses off the ground.

The University of Brighton has worked alongside Santander Universities to give grants of £500 and £1,000 to boost new ideas and creativity.

The grants can be used to start a business, develop an existing venture or support current trading, providing vital support for entrepreneurs who require assistance with aspects like product and technical development, intellectual property protection and marketing.

It is open for applications for current students or University of Brighton alumni who have graduated in the past five years.

Already ten start-up and new firms have been supported by the scheme, allowing graduates the chance to turn their dreams into a reality and viable business.

Business development manager Clare Griffiths,said: “I am constantly impressed with the creative, motivated and ethical minds of our student entrepreneurs.

“The Santander Start-Up Grants will support the graduates to develop their own ventures ranging from online language schools to innovative cushion designs and sustainable children’s clothing (based in India).”

Santander Universities director Matt Hutnell said the grants are helping make a big difference at a tough time for graduates.

He said: “Santander is committed to supporting higher education as well as local communities across the UK so we’re pleased that our funding is able to be make a difference at this critical time.

“Universities, such as Brighton, are doing some fantastic work to contribute to the UK’s effort to combat the impact of Covid-19, particularly in supporting students and graduates.

“We’re delighted to collaborate with our university partners in a way which increases their response effort and look forward to continuing to work with them on supporting both students and the broader higher education community with further initiatives over the coming months.”

Applications are open until September 20, to find out more about the scheme visit www.brighton.ac.uk.