Applications have opened for the latest intake of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme, offering fully funded business education and support to high-growth small enterprises and social ventures across the UK.
The initiative, run by Goldman Sachs in partnership with Saïd Business School and Aston Centre for Growth, will welcome its 25th cohort in September 2026. The deadline for applications is 24 April 2026.
Launched in 2010, the programme aims to address a long-standing support gap for small and medium-sized enterprises, equipping business leaders with practical tools to scale operations, create jobs and expand into new markets. It is offered at no cost to participants and open to entrepreneurs from all industry sectors.
Participants undertake more than 100 hours of structured learning, combining online sessions with in-person residential modules. The curriculum focuses on real-world business challenges, with each participant developing a tailored growth plan to guide their company’s future strategy.
Alongside formal teaching, the programme offers one-to-one mentoring, specialist workshops, business coaching and access to professional experts. Participants also benefit from peer-to-peer learning and join a nationwide network of programme alumni.
To qualify, applicants must lead a business that has been operating for at least three years, employs between five and 50 people, and generates annual turnover of at least £250,000. The programme is targeted at established businesses with clear growth ambitions, rather than start-ups or sole traders.
Social enterprises are also encouraged to apply, provided they operate commercially and deliver impact through trading rather than grant funding. Preference may be given to businesses working in disadvantaged communities or regeneration areas.
For further information and to apply please click here.