This free 16-week programme includes in-person and online workshops, tailored one to one support, specialist trustee sessions, wellbeing advice and strategy, and access to business support from Social Investment Scotland's (SIS) expert associates (by selection).

Workshops and Learning Sessions

Commercial & Customer Insight - Delivered by Chloe Cannon, these sessions will focus on understanding your customer, strengthening your commercial approach and developing sustainable income models.

Wellbeing Support - Ellis Beardsmore will host dedicated wellbeing sessions as part of the 16-week programme. A follow-up wellbeing check-in session will also be delivered to reinforce learning after the in-person wellbeing day, which will take place on Thursday, 4 June.

One to one Mentoring and Associate Business Support -  Participants will be offered dedicated 1:1 sessions with Social Investment Scotland's course facilitators, and/or access to tailored business consultancy support from a range of SIS Associates.

While the 16-week Ambitions programme is free, please be aware that you are responsible for any personal or travel expenses incurred for in‑person meetings.

The Ambitions 2026 Programme is for founders and leaders of Scottish third sector organisations who are - 

• Ready to move beyond day-to-day operations.
• Seeking practical growth and leadership tools.
• Ambitious about their organisation’s impact.
• Open to peer learning and reflection.

There is no cost to participate in Ambitions 2026, however please be aware that you will be responsible for any personal or travel expenses incurred for in‑person meetings.

Ambitions 2026 is for charity or social enterprise leaders that are based in Scotland.

The deadline to apply is 7 May. 

The sessions will begin on Thursday, 28 May (Scale Up) and Friday, 29 May (Step Up) and will run for 16 weeks (with breaks for some key holidays). 

Apply for Ambitions via the Social Investment Scotland website.