Business Start-up Schemes

If you're looking for help in setting up a new business, there are business start-up schemes available to help you do this. These programmes are also open to those from overseas looking to do business in this country.

Proof of Concept

The aim of the Proof of Concept programme is to commercialise research projects, new technologies that have the potential to grow into successful businesses.

The programme is not a research fund, but a full partnership programme that gives support to make businesses as successful as possible. Those who take part receive publicity for their businesses in the form of the web, awards ceremony and press releases.

The programme has been running for 10 years and has had 900 applications to date, creating 42 new companies.

An example of the programme's success:

Brinker Technology from Aberdeen University

Epi-V, a specialist oil and gas private equity fund, has invested £3 million in the company. Find our more about the company's deal can on University of Aberdeen's website. 

Enterprise Fellowship Fund

The Enterprise Fellowship Fund might be the right scheme for you if you:

• Are a post-graduate student or recently graduated from university
• Have a business idea
• Would like business training to take your business idea forward
• Would like business development funding to help move things along, and
• Would like to play a leading role in your company
  

More than 60% of people from the Enterprise Fellowship Fund create successful businesses. The businesses range from yacht sail design to cleaning systems for the oil and gas industry.

The programme is funded by Scottish Enterprise is also looking to attract applications from people who aren't based in Scotland. This also includes returning Scots. Find out more about the Enterprise Fellowship Fund on the Scottish Enterprise website.

The following are aimed at students and recent graduates:

The Fellowship Programme

The Fellowship programme is run by the Saltire Foundation, and it aims to find and invest in people who have the greatest potential in business.

The programme fast-tracks the career of the most talented and who wish to become business leaders. It runs full-time for 12-months and combines academic study with learning in a business environment. There are opportunities to spend time with different sized companies and there are networking opportunities available, which could help your future career.

All successful applicants will get up to 70% of their programme costs paid from a scholarship.

Read more about the Fellowship Programme and  Fellowship Programme content and timetable. 

Undergraduate Internship Programme

The Saltire Foundation also runs the undergraduate internship programme. It gives students from Scottish universities the chance to work in some of the world's top companies.

The programme broadens students'’ horizons and develops their confidence.

In summer 2008, 28 students went on placements in America, Singapore, Japan, Dubai and the Cayman Islands.

Find out more about the Undergraduate Internship Programme.

Related Links

• How to Start a Business in Scotland
• Information about other organisations who can advise you about doing business in Scotland
• Grants available in Scotland