Firstport and Scotland Unltd are working together in Scotland to provide advice and funding opportunities for new start social entrepreneurs. Two main funds are available to individuals who have great ideas and the vision, passion, drive and commitment to develop them.
Social Entrepreneurs Fund
The Scottish Government's Social Entrepreneurs Fund is a £1 million fund aimed at individuals with ideas to start up new social enterprise in Scotland.
Millennium Awards Trust
Scotland Unltd's Millennium Awards is part of Unltd's UK wide programme and makes awards to social entrepreneurs who want to change the world for the better.
To make things simple, Firstport and Scotland Unltd have created a single application form and process for both funds.
Levels of award
Level 1 - Awards between £500 and £5000
If you have an idea but need to test it to help get it off the ground then a level 1 award could help with some of the start up costs. Our turnaround time is eight weeks from when a complete application is submitted.
Level 2 - Awards up to £20,000
If you have already developed and tested your idea but need more time to implement it then a level 2 award could pay for your living expenses. The panel meets four times a year to make these awards and the next deadline to submit your application and business plan is 5 March 2010.
For more information on our awards programme download and read our guidance notes.
If you want to turn your idea into reality then first find out if you are eligible to apply. To begin press the Eligibility Checker button below.
More Information
- Social Entrepreneurs Fund Strategy (PDF, about 176KB)
- Overall Programme Guidance Notes (PDF, about 264KB)
- Level 2 Guidance Notes (PDF, about 280KB)
- Level 1 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (PDF, about 260KB)
If you'd like further information, please contact application@firstport.org.uk or telephone us on 0131 220 0511.
