The Scottish Co-Investment Fund (SCF) from Scottish Enterprise provides match-funding for Scottish start-up, early-stage or growing companies that are seeking investment alongside accredited co-investment partners.

The fund is designed to address a finance gap and support your growth plans.

Funding is available in amounts typically from £100,000 up to £2 million, as part of a total deal size that typically ranges from £200,000 up to £10 million.

You’ll need to secure funding from one of Scottish Enterprise's accredited co-investment partners before you apply for the fund. This partner will carry out due diligence, then present the investment proposition to Scottish Enterprise with details of the deal size, timing and structure.

Once the investment is completed, Scottish Enterprise's portfolio management team will work with your management team and co-investment partner to maximise the outcomes of the investment for everyone involved and the Scottish economy.

Investment is available for start-up or early-stage companies, as well as expanding businesses seeking to develop their products or markets.

To be considered for investment from this fund, your company must:

• be a commercially viable business with high growth potential
• operate or be planning to operate in Scotland at a level that matches the investment you've requested
• be a small to medium-sized business
• have, be developing or be committed to developing a net zero plan
• demonstrate or be working towards the 7 key principles of fair work: employee voice, security, respect, opportunity, fulfilment, flexible and family working, and the rejection of fire and rehire practices

The fund is not sector-specific, but certain sectors are restricted. Companies in these sectors may be considered if they have developed an innovative way to either address a gap or create new markets in the sector.

Restricted sectors include:

• real estate or property development
• social and personal services
• pubs, clubs and restaurants
• hotels
• local services
• banking and some financial services and insurance
• motor vehicles
• professional services
• retail

There is no cost to apply.

This is an equity fund where Scottish Enterprise subscribes for shares, with deals brought forward to the fund by accredited partners. The fund invests on equal terms with the co-investment partner.

The fund can match the investment from your accredited co-investment partners up to a maximum of 50% of the total funding package on a commercial basis.

Funding is available in amounts typically from £100,000 up to £2 million, as part of a total deal size that typically ranges from £200,000 up to £10 million.

Scottish start-up, early-stage or growing companies with high growth potential that need investment to develop products or markets.

Scottish Enterprise will contact you within 5 working days after you submit your initial enquiry form.

Processing time will depend on your application and the investment review process.

Submit an enquiry and an adviser be in touch to discuss your options and help you apply for funding.