The Printing Charity’s Rising Star Awards Now Open for Entries
The Printing Charity has opened applications for its Rising Star Awards, now in their 17th year. The awards give young people developing their careers in print, paper, packaging, graphics, or publishing the chance to access funding for training that will help them build new skills and progress professionally.
What the Awards Offer
Winners receive up to £1,500 to invest in training and development. This support is a grant, not a loan, meaning it does not need to be repaid. Courses can be tailored to individual needs, whether that involves technical training, leadership development, or specialist skills.
This year, the awards are open to people aged 18 to 35, an expanded range designed to recognise those who have either moved into the sector later or are looking to upskill in response to new professional opportunities.
Why the Awards Matter
Chief executive Neil Lovell describes the value of the programme clearly:
“Each year, the Rising Star Awards celebrate exceptional individuals shaping their careers in an industry we are proud to represent.
As our flagship programme, the Rising Stars attract and support emerging talent, highlighting the breadth of opportunity print offers and the many paths to success within our sector.”
Applications remain open until Sunday 29 March, and full guidance is available via the Rising Star Hub on the charity’s website, including tips on writing a strong application and advice on selecting suitable courses.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants can work in any role within the print sector. In 2025, the awards supported 78 winners across roles such as CAD programmer, electrical engineer, graphic designer, pre-press operator, print finisher, production planner, sign-maker, and transport and logistics coordinator.
The awards also funded 148 different courses last year – a 41% increase on 2024 – showing how broad the demand for training is across the sector.
Real Development Stories
Past winners speak highly of the opportunities the programme offers:
Jade Sullivan, senior client and project manager at POSITIVE+, said:
“I began applying what I learned straight away in my role. The course has given me the confidence to speak with colleagues and management, knowing that my ideas and suggestions are backed by solid, evidence-based theories.”
Marc Farmer, customer success agent at Tradeprint, added:
“It’s led to new conversations, networking opportunities, and industry involvement that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
Supporting the Next Generation
BPIF Training welcomes the launch of the 2026 awards, which offer a valuable opportunity for emerging talent to grow professionally and continue developing the skills the print and packaging industries rely on.
For full details and to apply, visit the Rising Star Hub on the Printing Charity website.