If you have an idea for a social enterprise that could help create positive change in Scotland, Firstport can provide a grant of up to £500 to help cover the costs. 

Pounds for Purpose can also provide one-to-one support from a business adviser to help you turn your idea into a working social enterprise.

Yes, if you are aged between 16 and 26 and a permanent resident of Scotland.

Your project must:

• benefit people or communities in Scotland as its main purpose
• not involve political campaigning or the promotion of religion
• not be already up and running

You must be developing the project independently or with the help of a small team of individuals. You cannot apply on behalf of a pre-existing, established organisation. This means that college or university projects are not eligible.

You must be able to spend the award budget and report on the project within 6 months.

This is a free service.

The programme is for 16 to 26 year olds, who are permanent residents of Scotland.

If your idea is eligible, Firstport will contact you within 2 to 4 weeks to arrange an initial discussion.

After you apply, your application will be sent to the independent panel that makes the funding decision. You should hear the result within 6 to 8 weeks of the date you applied.

You then must be able to spend the award budget and report on the project within 6 months.

Visit the Firstport website to find out more about Pounds for Purpose and to apply.