Santander Universities supports Birkbeck students with £175,000 of funding
Birkbeck receives £25,000 to support students in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, and £150,000 to support Birkbeck entrepreneurs.
Santander Universities has generously pledged £25,000 to support students at Birkbeck facing hardship as a result of the global pandemic.
Santander Universities, a corporate partner of the College since 2013, is committing further funding to support students who have been affected by the current crisis. This includes those in our community who are facing financial hardship, as well as those who have limited access to vital technology and equipment during this period of remote study.
This week Santander Universities also confirmed a £150,000 agreement to launch a new programme at Birkbeck to support the entrepreneurs of tomorrow to transform their business ideas into successful start-ups and SMEs. Building on the success of the Pioneer Programme which launched in 2019; this project will work with students with fledging enterprises to build their businesses through workshops, mentoring from successful entrepreneurs and financial support.
Nic Katona, Director of Development and Alumni, commented: “We are so grateful for the support that we have received from Santander Universities over the years and I am delighted to see that this partnership will continue to benefit our students.
“During these challenging times Birkbeck plays a crucial role in assisting learners to upskill or reskill; furthering their knowledge and job prospects. Now more than ever philanthropic donors are providing crucial support for our students and ensuring access to a Birkbeck education for all those that want it. Thank you to Santander Universities for their continued support.”
Matt Hutnell, Director, Santander Universities, 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 directed to where it is most needed at this critical time. We look forward to continuing to work with universities on supporting both students and the broader higher education community with further initiatives over the coming months.”