Funding to get your social enterprise up and running. Start It funds you, rather than the business, and many awardees have never run a business before.
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Aged 18+ and a permanent resident of Scotland, with an early-stage idea that isn't trading regularly yet, is independent, reinvests its profits, aims to sustain itself through trading and makes a direct, measurable impact in Scotland.
Read the full criteria and guidance on the current site75% of successful Start It applicants worked with a business advisor before applying (2023).
Guidance notes (a web page in the full build, not only a PDF)
Inclusive dance and fitness classes, and equipment, taken to rural community halls across Orkney, paid for by memberships, pay-as-you-go classes and private events.
Start It → Build It → LaunchMe → Step Up · Orkney
Venison from overpopulated deer on a family farm near Pitlochry becomes donations for food banks and community larders, funded by sales from a social enterprise butcher's shop on the high street.
Start It → Build It → Social Innovation Challenge → LaunchMe → Step Up · Pitlochry, Perthshire
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.
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.
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.
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.
