This fund supports projects that help more people become entrepreneurs, particularly those whose needs are not always met by mainstream support. This includes 

• women
• young people
• ethnic minority communities
• migrants and refugees
• disabled and neurodiverse people
• individuals affected by domestic abuse

You can apply for funding for activities such as:

• grassroots community building and networking
• long term programmes or new pathways into business start-up
• improved access to mentoring, expertise and peer learning
• creating inclusive and accessible environments for emerging entrepreneurs
• sector focused projects that strengthen the wider ecosystem

You cannot use this funding for capital purchases such as property or equipment for your business, or to support your core running costs or business-as-usual activity. 

Your project should provide tailored, relationship-led support that understands the barriers these individuals face and delivers lasting outcomes.

Ideally, your application should show clear impact, innovation, collaboration and a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion. It should also explain how the benefits of your project will continue beyond the funding period.

Grants of up to £75,000 are available

The deadline to apply is 5pm on Thursday 26 March 2026.

All activities and spending covered by the fund must be completed by 31 March 2027. 

The fund is open to organisations that are headquartered in Scotland or have significant operations here.

Your organisation must demonstrate appropriate governance, safeguarding and financial stability.

Eligible organisations include:

• ecosystem builders such as incubators, accelerators and community groups
• universities, colleges and education providers
• established businesses and private organisations
• industry associations, third-sector organisations and non-profits
• private organisations
• unconstituted groups or individuals
• Business Gateway economic development teams

Core government agencies and public bodies are not eligible.

You can read full details of the eligibility criteria on the fund's website.

It is free to apply for this fund.

Grants up to £75,000 are available. You'll need to cover any additional costs above this amount through other sources.

You'll receive your grant payments retrospectively, in instalments. This means you'll need to be able to cover the costs upfront, then reclaim the money through the grant.

Each instalment will be paid out after you achieve certain agreed project milestones. This detailed payment schedule will be set out in your grant offer letter if your application is successful.

Organisations, groups, individuals and activities that encourage and support entrepreneurship in under-represented and under-supported groups and communities in Scotland.

The deadline to apply is 5pm on Thursday 26 March 2026.

Applications will be assessed during April, and you’ll get a decision on your funding in early May 2026.

All projects must be completed by 31 March 2027.

The deadline to apply is 5pm on Thursday 26 March 2026.

The first step of the application process is an initial screening form that all applicants must complete. You'll then need to complete an online application that includes:

• a detailed project description
• your expected outcomes
• your milestones, deliverables and future plans
• your experience and capability
• your budget and resources

Visit the Ecosystem Fund website for more information and to read the full fund guidance.