Questions and answers
Straight answers to common questions
14 questions
Is Firstport's support free?
Yes. Grant funding, one-to-one business advice, investment readiness support and social investment services are free to clients. Firstport is paid to deliver programmes for the Scottish Government, foundations and other public-sector partners.
Do I need a business background?
No. Most people feel they're missing skills at the beginning, and it isn't a barrier. Many Start It awardees had never run a business before. A business advisor helps with things like your business model, pricing and legal structure.
Is my idea a social enterprise?
If it trades to make a profit and reinvests that profit in doing good, it could be. Social enterprises are businesses that use their profits for positive impact, reinvesting them in their communities and the people they serve. There's no single legal structure. If your idea is purpose-led but not a social enterprise, Firstport's sister company Firstimpact may be able to help.
Who can apply for Start It?
Individuals aged 18 or over who live permanently in Scotland and have an early-stage idea. The idea mustn't be trading regularly yet. It must be independent, mainly benefit people in Scotland, reinvest its profits and aim to pay its way through trading, with a direct, measurable impact.
How much is Start It, and what can it pay for?
Up to £5,000 for start-up costs. Typical costs include legal or incorporation fees, rent if you have premises, a website and branding, insurance and accountancy, and equipment. Start It funds you rather than the business.
How long does a Start It decision take?
Usually 12–14 weeks from applying. The awards team contacts you within 2–4 weeks to arrange an informal assessment by phone or Teams, then an independent panel decides. It can take longer at busy times. Start It is open all year.
I've already set up as a sole trader or a company limited by shares. Can I still apply for Start It?
Yes, but you'll be asked why you chose that structure. Start It funds individuals rather than organisations. If keeping the ability to distribute profits matters to you, you're unlikely to get Start It, and Firstimpact may be a better fit.
What does Build It fund?
New salaried roles, for up to £40,000 over 12 months. Up to £27,000 for one salary or up to £40,000 across two or more, all at the Real Living Wage. It's for incorporated, asset-locked social enterprises in Scotland trading for three years or less, and it's paid to the enterprise.
Can community groups apply?
Yes, through the Community Enterprise Fund. It offers up to £5,000, spent over twelve months, for constituted community groups in Scotland that want to start trading or set up a social enterprise. It can't pay for existing activities, repairs or property improvements.
Can I get a loan instead of a grant?
Yes, if you're already trading in Scotland. Step Up offers 0% interest loans of £5,000–£30,000 to repeat an activity that has already worked, with a decision within three weeks. The Catalyst Fund offers revenue-based investment of over £50,000.
How does Catalyst Fund investment work?
You repay a share of your income, so repayments rise and fall with your sales. There's a fixed fee instead of interest, no fixed term (the aim is to be repaid within ten years) and no repayments for the first twelve months. Talk to the team first: most applicants get investment-ready through a programme like LaunchMe.
Do you support social entrepreneurs in North East England?
Yes. Boost Invest is an investment readiness programme for the North East combined authority area, funded by players of People's Postcode Lottery. The Social Enterprise Boost Fund in Sunderland and South Tyneside is fully allocated this year.
Can I use AI to help write my application?
Yes, but check everything it writes. AI content can be inaccurate or incomplete. Firstport never uses AI to make assessment or funding decisions. If you hit accessibility barriers, contact the team about other ways to apply.
Is Firstport the same as FirstPort, the property management company?
No. We're not connected in any way. Firstport is a charity that supports social entrepreneurs. For questions about a flat, a building or a service charge, contact FirstPort Property Services at firstport.co.uk.
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