Charity expands to support scientists alongside engineers in business

A leading UK charity dedicated to helping technically trained professionals develop business expertise has broadened its scope to reflect the country’s growing focus on science and technology.

Formerly the Engineers in Business Fellowship (EIBF), the organisation will now be known as the Engineers and Scientists in Business Fellowship (ESBF). The new name follows its 2024 decision to extend support to scientists, in addition to engineers.

Founded in 1987 by Lord Sainsbury of Turville, the fellowship began with the prestigious Sainsbury Management Fellows (SMF) scholarships, which provide more than fifteen £50,000 awards each year for individuals undertaking MBAs at world-class business schools. Since its launch, over 400 fellows have graduated, going on to create more than 300 companies worth nearly £5 billion and generating upwards of 21,000 UK jobs.

In addition to scholarships, ESBF now backs more than 50 enterprise competitions annually at universities across the UK, encouraging students and researchers to develop entrepreneurial ideas.

David Falzani MBE, President of ESBF, said:

“This change reflects our wider mission to support both engineers and scientists to turn technical expertise into commercial impact. By strengthening the pipeline of innovation and leadership, we aim to contribute to the UK’s ambition of becoming a science and tech superpower.” 

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