The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation (SLDF) and the Institute of Directors (IoD) have teamed up to launch a ground-breaking scholarship program aimed at accelerating the careers of exceptional black business leaders across the UK.
The initiative will launch in October 2025 and will offer three outstanding leaders – one from a start-up, one from an SME and one from the public or third sector – a fully-funded place on the IoD’s prestigious Certificate in Company Direction programme, worth almost £15,000.
Each recipient will also receive a two-year IoD membership, providing access to professional development resources, mentoring opportunities and one of the UK’s most influential leadership networks.
The collaboration marks a significant milestone in both organizations’ shared mission: to dismantle systemic barriers to success and create a pipeline of Black talent for senior decision-making positions in business, government and the nonprofit sector.
The scholarship aligns with SLDF’s “3 C’s” vision – Careers, Classrooms and Communities – and reflects a holistic approach to empowerment and representation:
Careers: We equip high-potential Black leaders with governance, strategy and financial expertise so they can confidently move into board positions.
classroom: Strengthening the Foundation’s belief in lifelong learning and the power of vocational training.
communities: Developing visible role models and changemakers who advocate for equity, mentorship, and inclusion across industries.
Jessica Neil, CEO of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, said the initiative was both a symbolic and practical step forward: “Stephen’s legacy calls us to imagine a society where talent and ambition are not constrained by systemic inequality. This scholarship is not just an opportunity for three people – it is an investment in the future leadership of the UK, where black voices are heard, valued and empowered to create lasting change.”
Baroness Doreen Lawrence of Clarendon added: “Stephen believed in a world where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. This partnership is a step towards that vision – breaking down barriers, increasing black excellence and creating space for new voices at the highest levels of leadership. It’s about justice, legacy and lasting change.”
Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the IoD, said the organization was proud to be working on a program that champions diversity and strengthens the UK’s leadership pipeline:
“Great leadership thrives on diversity of thought, perspective and experience. By partnering with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, we are ensuring the next generation of Black leaders have the tools, knowledge and networks to shape a more inclusive business landscape.”
Each leader selected receives:
Full funding for the IoD Certificate in Business Management (must be completed within two years) – worth £14,850.
Two years IoD membership, including access to exclusive resources, events and networking opportunities – worth £988.
The scholarship is open to applicants who self-identify as Black or come from racially minoritized or marginalized backgrounds, with priority given to those of Black or mixed Black ancestry.
Applicants must:
Hold a senior management or director position for at least two years or have held within the last 12 months.
Show influence on strategic decisions within your organization.
Demonstrate a proven track record of driving business growth, social value or community impact.
Present a clear vision of how the opportunity will benefit their leadership journey and the broader community.
How to apply
The application period begins on October 31, 2025 and ends on November 28, 2025. The winners will be announced in January 2026.
Interested candidates can apply or learn more at: http://iod.com/l/iod-and-sldf-scholarship-hy6sbnjkls866sfx
This ground-breaking collaboration between the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation and the Institute of Directors represents a bold commitment to justice, excellence and empowerment, nurturing the leaders who will shape the future of British business and public life.
