University of Northampton - Gifts sought for the gifted

A drive to raise £2 million for a new scholarship endowment fund has been launched by the University of Northampton.

The fundraising push began with a reception for potential benefactors, who were told that the scheme would offer financial assistance to "gifted, talented and skilled" students. Ann Tate, the university's vice-chancellor, said: "When our endowment is secured, it will enable us to offer very significant scholarships to at least 20 students each year. In addition, for the next three years the Government has pledged to match 50p for every pound we raise in philanthropic giving. Investment in people in this way is a lifetime gift that they can then give back to their community." The fund has already had its first donation - £100,000 from the Wilson Foundation, a Northamptonshire charity.