Ten Salford Business School students will soon benefit from new scholarships designed to help them overcome financial barriers and achieve their ambitions, thanks to a £20,000 award from the Jim Jackson Educational and Enabling Foundation.
The Foundation, established in memory of Jim Jackson, is dedicated to helping young people overcome disadvantage and succeed in business, commerce and employment. Its mission includes funding training and development opportunities, improving employability, and working with partner organisations to provide networks of support.
The latest donation will create ten £2,000 scholarships for Salford Business School students from widening participation backgrounds – meaning students who face financial or social barriers to higher education.
The scholarships will be distributed via the JS Group Aspire platform, an online shop where students can purchase essential learning resources such as books, technology, and specialist equipment. By reducing the financial pressures of university life, the scholarships will help students focus on their studies and prepare for future careers.
Who can apply?
Scholarships will be awarded across different stages of the student journey:
- First-year students: Four scholarships for those studying a business programme
- Second-year students: Four scholarships for those in the Launch programme
- Final-year students: Two scholarships
Each award will provide a total contribution of £2,000 over one academic year, paid in one instalment across 2025/26. Selection will be based on widening participation status, academic performance, and the quality of the application.
Support from the Foundation and University
Sophie Thorp, Head of Philanthropy, Alumni and Support Engagement, said: “These scholarships will make a real difference to our students. Direct financial support through scholarships is often a lifeline for students. It can be the difference between staying at university and dropping out due to financial pressures.
“These scholarships will help students reduce part-time work, focus on their studies, and make the most of the opportunities here at Salford. We are hugely grateful to the Jim Jackson Foundation for enabling us to support our students this way.”
Jill Hill, Founder of the Jim Jackson Foundation said “We’re delighted to partner with Salford Business School to provide these scholarships. Supporting students to reach their full potential in their ambition to enter a career in the world of business, regardless of life circumstances, is at the heart of our mission.”
How to apply
Applications are now open and close on 3 October, with successful students announced later this autumn.
Full details and application guidance will be available here.