A Start It award offers up to £5,000 in grant funding to individuals that want to start a social enterprise. It is designed to help new social entrepreneurs pay for start-up costs.

These costs can vary, but typical examples include: 

• legal fees for incorporation and registration as a charity or Community Interest Company
• rent (if premises have been chosen)
• website, branding, logo design and marketing materials
• insurance and accountancy services
• equipment

This service is available to applicants aged 16 or over who are permanent residents of Scotland. 

Your enterprise is eligible if it:

• operates primarily for the benefit of people or communities in Scotland
• does not engage in political campaigning or the promotion of religion
• is an independent organisation and not the project or subsidiary of an existing body
• will have a direct social impact on individuals, communities or the environment
• is in the early stages of development – that is, the ‘idea’ or ‘start-up’ phase – and has not begun trading regularly
• does not form part of your current employment

If the enterprise needs premises to start trading, you must identify a property and confirm you have an Agreement in Principle for a mortgage.

This is a free service.

Individuals who have an idea for a social enterprise but need some funding to get it up and running. 

After you submit your application, a member of the Firstport Awards Team will contact you within 2 to 4 weeks to discuss your ideas. You should receive a decision within 12 to 14 weeks of applying.

Find out more about the Start It award on the Firstport website.