Six university-founded social enterprises have been selected as finalists for Ignite 2025, the Ford Family Foundation’s flagship competition supporting early-stage, purpose-driven ventures.
The finalists will pitch their innovations at the Barclays Innovation Hub powered by Eagle Labs in Shoreditch, London, on Tuesday 21 October 2025, competing for a share of a £50,000 prize fund. Each will receive tailored pitching support, accelerator mentoring and access to Barclays Eagle Labs’ digital resources.
Last year’s finalists went on to share an additional £280,000 in follow-on funding after the inaugural Ignite showcase at The Shard.
Tony Ford, founder of the Ford Family Foundation, praised the “extraordinary talent emerging from universities across the UK,” calling this year’s field “outstanding.”
“Each of the ventures we are celebrating through Ignite demonstrates the kind of entrepreneurial talent and social purpose that will shape the future,” Ford said. “It’s a privilege to support and showcase their work.”
The Ignite 2025 finalists
WeDonate (University of Chichester) – A digital platform designed to boost blood donation through community-based rewards, helping hospitals maintain reliable supplies while recognising donors and supporting local businesses.
Reporti (Imperial College London & Royal College of Art) – A safeguarding app enabling users at large events to report incidents such as harassment or unsafe behaviour quickly and securely.
Harker (University of Liverpool) – A CRM system for homelessness charities, providing data insights to improve services, strengthen funding applications and enhance outcomes for vulnerable individuals. (pictured above)
AIBŌ (King’s College London) – A social enterprise connecting students with older people through paid companionship, tackling loneliness while supporting students financially.
Braille Forge (Brunel University) – Affordable braille technology to improve access to STEM education for visually impaired students, with a focus on lowering costs and enhancing tactile learning tools.
Rephobia (Queen’s University Belfast) – A virtual reality therapy platform offering affordable and accessible treatment for phobias, including fear of flying, heights and social situations.
Giselle Gonzales, founder of EQUALReach and finalist at Ignite 2024, will return as keynote speaker and judge. Her employment platform connects refugee professionals with digital work opportunities and has since secured a UK and international pilot with a Fortune 500 company.
Gonzales reflected on her journey since last year’s competition:
“When I started my company in the UK, I never imagined I’d be pitching to a packed audience at The Shard. The friendships, networks and support from Ignite have been invaluable. It’s an honour to return as a judge to help champion the next wave of founders driving profit with purpose.”
The six finalists will present their pitches to a live audience and judging panel, followed by a Q&A session. Organisers say the competition continues to highlight the growing pipeline of socially conscious entrepreneurs emerging from UK universities, blending innovation with impact.
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Six university start-ups named as finalists for Ignite 2025 social enterprise competition
