The Livery Academy Awards is an innovative programme designed for City Livery Companies to engage with state schools to help stimulate business and entrepreneurial skills among their sixth-form pupils. The school teams are given a brief to develop a business idea and present it to an industry standard to a distinguished panel of judges (often household names) and an audience of company members. The companies provide each team with mentors from the finance and marketing/advertising/creative sectors, ideally drawn from their membership. This vibrant programme continues and expands the Livery’s ancient remit to encourage and nurture young people, giving them key skills which they can carry into the world of work.

The programme originated at the Grocers’ Company in 2013 and now expanded to the Haberdashers and Fishmongers.Winners take part in the exciting Grand Final at Mansion House, hosted by the Lord Mayor.

Mossbourne Community Academy supported by the Grocers' Company, were the winners of the Mansion House final in January 2026. Their innovative idea was 'Carpe'. The problem: Schools teach knowledge, but often not the critical thinking, creativity and ability to think on your feet that employers value.The solution: Carpe, an app that gives students a daily timed challenge to pitch an idea or solve a problem.AI-powered feedback: Students record their response and receive personalised feedback on both their ideas and delivery, helping them improve with practice.The motivation: A daily £100 prize encourages students to take part and develop their skills.The USP: Carpe turns critical thinking into a practical, competitive and engaging daily habit — helping young people build the confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills they need for the world of work.

Mansion House Final - Tuesday 26th January 2027