Summary

Start It awards are for individuals with an innovative business idea which addresses a social, environmental and/or community issue. Costs can vary, but typical examples include:

• Legal fees for incorporation and/or registration as a charity or Community Interest Company
• Rent (if premises have been identified)
• Website, branding, logo design and marketing materials
• Insurance and accountancy services
• Equipment

You are ready to apply for Start It if you can demonstrate:

• A strong business model- This means you have thought about how your idea will generate income so it does not rely on grants in the long term. You may have already run a pilot or gathered some interest for your product or service (but you have yet to trade regularly).
• A clear social impact– You have identified the social or environmental issue you want to tackle. You can tell us how you will make a direct, positive impact and measure the difference you are making.
• Self-awareness and determination– Start It funds you rather than the business, so we need to know about your skills, knowledge, and passion for the issue you are tackling and how these will help you to make your idea a success. These skills and experience don’t have to be in business – many Start It awardees have not run a business before.

Premium information is available exclusively to SCVO members and supporters

Geographical areas funded: Scotland

Fund type

Type of funding:

Grant

Type of cost:

Capital, Revenue

Fund award sizes

Maximum:

Premium information

Who can apply

Your enterprise must be an independent organisation and not a project or subsidiary of an existing body and must aim to provide direct social benefit to individuals, communities and/or the environment.

When to apply

Apply any time.

How to apply

Apply online via the Firstport website.

Contact information

Exclusions

Premium information

Activites funded: Community development & regeneration General charitable activities

Beneficiaries funded: General public

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Last reviewed 25 days ago