University in line for Times award

Aston University has been shortlisted for Entrepreneurial University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards 2016. Known as the Oscars of UK higher education, the THE Awards attract hundreds of entries ever year that “exemplify the talent, dedication and innovation of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life”. The Entrepreneurial University of the Year category, sponsored by the National Centre for Entrepreneurship in Education (NCEE), recognises universities that have developed “an environment and culture that fosters enterprising attitudes among all members of its community and delivers significant entrepreneurial impact at regional, national and international levels”. Aston supports students with ambitions to set up a successful business through schemes including Birmingham Skills for Enterprise and Employability Network (BSEEN), which offers workshops including a two-day intensive start-up session, a grant to kick start the business, tailored mentoring programmes, free work space and lots of networking opportunities. Successful applicants are invited to present their business idea to a panel of judges. Professor Paul Maropoulos, pro-vice chancellor for research and enterprise, said: “I am delighted that we have been shortlisted for this prestigious award from THE. “Enterprise is at the heart of what we do at Aston. It is embedded in our culture and underpins a wide range of our activities, from business engagement, to research and spin outs.” The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on Thursday 24 November.