Scottish EDGE announces £50K regional award for Perth and Kinross
To recognise the entrepreneurial endeavours of candidates from across the country, ‘Regional EDGE’, is inviting innovative, high growth start-ups from across Perth and Kinross to be in with the chance of winning up to £50,000 in prizes.
Applications opened on Monday 9th December and will be accepted until Monday 20th January at 2pm. Find out more and apply >
To date, Scottish EDGE has supported 635 businesses, awarding over £26 million in grants and loans to winners, including Perth based business, Swarma Spice Ltd, who were awarded £75,000 in 2023.
This new pilot award is the latest initiative in the long-standing relationship between the Scottish Government and Scottish EDGE. The funds will be allocated via a competitive Scottish EDGE process delivered by region specific delivery partners, including GrowBiz for Perth and Kinross.
Awards in each region will consist of one £50,000 top award, two £15,000, and two £10,000 awards.
Karen Nichol, Chief Operating Officer at Growbiz said: “GrowBiz is excited to be a partner in the first Regional EDGE competition. It’s a great opportunity to encourage the many innovative businesses in Perth & Kinross, in a range of diverse sectors, to get involved.
“Whether or not they make it to the final, GrowBiz and the EDGE team will help them to access the support and funding they need to thrive and grow.'”
Winners are also set to benefit from becoming EDGE Alumni, receiving access to the organisation’s network of contacts and business acumen, while all applicants will receive feedback from a panel of business experts to support them on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, commented, “The partnership between the Scottish Government and Scottish EDGE has long driven our ambition to become a world-leading start-up nation and this new project further emphasises that desire.
“This new regional programme will help fledgling businesses out with the central belt develop and grow while capturing the competitive essence of entrepreneurism, providing essential support for innovation across Scotland.
“We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs to be successful and have allocated over £15 million this year to grow Scotland’s entrepreneurial spirit, creating jobs and boosting the economy.”
Simon Hannah, chair of Scottish EDGE, said: “The launch of Regional EDGE showcases our commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship across Scotland’s diverse regions. With the backing of the Scottish Government and our valued delivery partners, Regional EDGE aims to shine a spotlight on promising start-ups in four key areas, providing ambitious entrepreneurs with the critical funding and support they need to bring their bold ideas to life”.
A reminder of the key dates:
- Applications open on Monday 9th December
- Applications will be accepted until Monday 20th January at 2pm
- Regional finals taking place in February 2025
- Perth & Kinross awards dinner will be hosted by Growbiz on 24th February 2025
Applications can be made through the Scottish EDGE website here >