Grant News

Social Tech Trust and EY Foundation have announced that the AI and Social Mobility Challenge Prize is open for applications. Social Tech Trust is a UK charity supporting socially motivated tech ventures, while EY Foundation works to remove barriers to employment for young people.

The programme will support early-stage ventures using AI or emerging technology to improve education, skills, employment and long-term opportunity for young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds in the UK.

Eight shortlisted ventures will receive £3,125 each, with a further £10,000 awarded to the winner and £5,000 to the runner-up. The programme also offers structured learning, mentoring, expert support, investor and funder readiness activity, and access to cross-sector networks.

Applications are open to startups, social enterprises, nonprofits and companies with a working prototype or minimum viable product. Applicants must have UK operations, or a clear route to operating in the UK, and demonstrate early traction and measurable social impact.

The programme is interested in:

· AI-powered careers guidance and job matching;
· personalised learning and skills platforms;
· access to apprenticeships and training;
· inclusive recruitment tools;
· mentoring and guidance platforms.

Applications close on 20 July 2026. Shortlisted ventures will be interviewed before the final cohort is selected.