Press release
Entrepreneurship Catalyst award completes hat-trick of honours for Dundee
The University of Dundee has cemented its position as the definitive destination for the next generation of entrepreneurs after securing its third major award in a year.
Published on 12 September 2025
Left to right: Dr Emilee Simmons (President Elect, Enterprise Educators UK, Head of Dundee Business School and Law School, Abertay University) Brian McNicoll (Head of Entrepreneurship, University of Dundee) Peter Harrington (CEO, SimVenture, Award sponsor) Susan Walker (Enterprise and Engagement Officer, University of Dundee) Christopher Smyth (Head of Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Programmes, University of Dundee) Dr Victoria Oziri (Enterprise Lecturer and Researcher, University of Dundee)
The University’s Centre of Entrepreneurship secured the Entrepreneurship Catalyst title at the 2025 UK National Enterprise Educators Awards.
The hotly-contested prize was awarded to the Dundee team in recognition of its work in delivering exceptional entrepreneurship education to students and staff outside of the curriculum. The honour follows on from being named Innovative & Entrepreneurial University of the Year at the European Triple E Awardslast September, and Outstanding Entrepreneurial University of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards.
Dr David McBeth, Vice-Principal Enterprise & Economic Transformation, said, “This is another tremendous success for the University and further enhances our reputation as the leading Higher Education destination for budding entrepreneurs.
“This accolade is particularly significant as it specifically recognises the dedication and hard work of the team from our Centre for Entrepreneurship. For many years they have championed the entrepreneurial spirit throughout our campus, supporting and advising staff and students, helping them to turn business dreams into realities.
“The skills and knowledge of the team really help fulfil personal ambitions of our entrepreneurs – across staff, students and alumni of the University. The Centre and its work is crucial in developing the pipeline of enterprise talent that is crucial to future of both the local and wider economy.”
Brian McNicoll, Head of Entrepreneurship, added “To win a third prestigious award in under a year is not only a huge honour, but also proof beyond doubt, that Dundee is outstanding at entrepreneurship.
"For a university of our size and location to achieve this repeatedly is nothing short of remarkable. This momentum has been built over a ten-year period, through the vision, passion and hard work of colleagues across the institution. It shows what can be achieved within a university when entrepreneurship is a key strategic pillar and we hope this provides inspiration to other universities who are embarking on a similar journey.”