Power Up Scotland Programme

Power Up Scotland develops early stage social businesses through investment, business support and cross-sector partnerships.

Who can apply? 

Social enterprises and charities in Scotland that are between ideation to 3 years of trading history should apply. We care about your seeing your social business grow over time, and will help you with the tools needed to do so.  

What will I get from the programme?  

Power Up Scotland develops early stage social businesses through investment, business support and cross-sector partnerships. On this pre-seed accelerator programme each social enterprise receives 3-months of mentorship from a team of corporate professionals not only focused on becoming investment ready, but also addressing the specific needs of the organisation providing: 

  • Access to social finance and investment readiness support
  • Potential routes to market through our partners
  • Specialised business support from senior corporate and public sector partners
  • Leadership development to create a sustainable social business

After the 3-month mentorship programme each founder is invited to pitch for up to £50,000 of investment. 

Background 

Our early stage venture programmes have operated for over eight years in partnership with large corporate organisations. Big Issue Invest has used this experience and gained a deep understanding of early-stage social enterprises and charities, their need to grow and how to empower them to become investment ready. 

In 2018, Big Issue Invest launched Power Up Scotland in partnership with abrdnThe University of EdinburghThe Scottish Government and Brodies LLP, later adding partners Places For People and Experian

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