12 February 2026
Bilbao
The Faculty of Education and Sport at the University of Deusto has launched the first edition of the Teacherpreneur Awards 2026, an initiative designed to empower, reward, and give visibility to teachers in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country (CAPV) who stand out for their innovative spirit, entrepreneurial mindset, and ability to transform education. The call is open to Primary Education teachers from any school in the Basque Country, who can apply individually or as a team.
Inspired by the European Commission's guidelines on entrepreneurship education, the concept of “teacherpreneur” defines the “teacher of the future.” It is not just about creating businesses, but about fostering essential transversal skills such as creativity, initiative, perseverance, and teamwork. In this regard, a teacherpreneur is a teacher who acts as a guide and mentor throughout the learning process, going beyond the traditional lecture.
They are also a professional who uses active methodologies such as Project-Based Learning (PBL), often replacing the textbook with their own resources, and possesses an open, flexible, and responsible mindset, connecting the classroom with the outside world and real experts. Finally, they are a teacher who encourages a diversity of opinions and reflection on the learning process.
Those interested in applying for this call must complete a self-assessment form (link) and submit a video of up to 5 minutes (or a written/visual presentation) demonstrating their entrepreneurial mindset and the impact they have had in their school. Once completed, please send a message to: jessicapanos@deusto.es and aarruti@deusto.es.
Awards and Visibility
An expert jury will select 10 finalists from the applications received, from which the winning teacherpreneur or team of teacherpreneurs will be chosen. These 10 applications will be displayed on a dedicated poster in the cloister of the University of Deusto (Bilbao and San Sebastian campuses).
The winning teacher or team will receive a €500 prize and a promotional video showcasing specific evidence of their entrepreneurial mindset as Primary Education teachers. In addition, in September, one member of the winning team or the winning teacher will be invited to deliver a masterclass to the Primary Education students at the University of Deusto. The deadline for submitting applications is 28 February 2026. The names of finalists and winners will be announced in June, and the awards ceremony will take place in September.
