The world of printing’s stars of the future are being supported with a very generous donation from a not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote their abilities in the business world and beyond. This month, PrintWeek revealed that the Printing Charity has put £30,000 into this year’s Print Futures Awards, allowing the scheme to give 20 prizes to the industry’s most promising people.

It marks a huge rise from the investment in the awards last year, when just £8,500 was available for eight prizes. The Print Futures Awards gives away bursaries of £1,500 to those who want to undertake training courses to improve their already-impressive careers in the UK’s print industry.

Other organisations contributing to the fund include Unite the Union and the BPIF, who also believe in supporting those aged between 16 and 30 already working in the publishing or graphic arts sectors. This year, winners will receive awards at a prominent gathering at the House of Lords in July; applications are open until May 31st.

“Our trustees have decided to further back our work amongst young people,” said Printing Charity chief executive Stephen Gilbert. “In these tough economic times, it is good news that this extra help is available for young people seeking training and education who want to develop their skills and improve their earning ability.”