The University of Sheffield’s entrepreneurial spirit was on full display recently, as this year’s Emerge Awards Showcase awarded a total of £14,000 to some of its most promising student and graduate start-ups.
Backed by Santander Universities, the Emerge platform is now in its second year and continues to play a vital role in nurturing early-stage ventures. The event brought together over 100 student, graduate and regional entrepreneurs – creating a buzzing environment packed with innovation, collaboration and ambition. As well as the financial boost, the showcase served up valuable networking opportunities with mentors and business leaders from across Sheffield’s thriving business scene.
A standout winner from this year’s cohort was PortalZero, who scooped the prize in the Idea Development Category – a segment recognising businesses that have progressed beyond the concept stage and are actively building out a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
Founded by University of Sheffield alumni Nayden Yurukov, PortalZero is developing a DC-powered induction hob designed to replace gas cookers in a cleaner, safer and more energy-efficient way. Designed with solar compatibility in mind, the product aims to reduce system costs, enhance safety and improve overall durability – all while helping households make the switch to electric cooking with minimal fuss.
Their six-month roadmap is an ambitious one, including:
- Completing a funding round
- Finalising their second-generation prototype
- Launching pilot tests with early adopters
- Kicking off certification and compliance testing
- Securing a manufacturing and supply chain setup
Speaking after the win, Nayden said: “Being recognised among such innovative startups is a real honour. Congratulations to all the other winners and participants — there’s some amazing talent on the rise, and we’re proud to be part of it. A huge thank you to the incredible Emerge team for putting together such an inspiring event and for the unwavering support they offer to student and graduate entrepreneurs. The energy in the room, the quality of ideas, and the sense of community were truly electric.”
The Emerge Awards are more than just a prize pot – they’re part of a long-term strategy by the University to empower entrepreneurial talent and encourage graduates to build their ventures here in Sheffield. It’s a model that supports innovation and strengthens the local economy, helping keep great ideas – and great people – in the city.
Keep an eye out for these names; Sheffield’s next generation of business leaders might already be building something game-changing.
