BICBA opens applications for 2026 bursary
The British Irish Commercial Bar Association (BICBA) is welcoming applications for its 2026 bursary competition.
The competition is open to barristers, advocates, and solicitors (including trainees) of less than seven years' standing, who come from a background not traditionally represented in the commercial legal sector, by virtue of disability, disadvantage and/or socio-economic challenge.
Applications should be submitted by 5pm on 30 January 2026 and sent by email to enquiries@bicba.com. Interviews will follow in February.
Support and mentorship
The bursary winner will receive:
- A payment of up to €3,000/£2,750 to defray educational expenses to advance their practice in commercial law,
- Support from BICBA throughout the year of the bursary and onward mentorship, and
- An opportunity to speak at the 2027 BICBA Forum in Dublin.
Applications should include the following:
- Personal details, including educational history,
- Details of the educational course or programme that the applicant would apply for, if successful, and
- Details of how the applicant’s completion of the course would enhance and/or promote diversity in commercial legal practice.