Discover Funding Opportunities

Regional EDGE

Regional EDGE is a competitive funding programme designed to broaden the reach of Scottish EDGE support to businesses across Scotland, particularly in regions that may not have previously engaged with EDGE. The programme strengthens relationships with regional partners who possess invaluable local expertise and are embedded within their communities. Backed by £400,000 of Scottish Government funding, the programme is split across four regions: Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, Tayside (Perth & Kinross, Dundee & Angus), Highlands and Islands, and South of Scotland. Each region delivers its own live finals, with five winners selected in each region. Awards consist of one top award of £50,000 (70/30 loan/grant split), two £15,000 awards (grant only), and two £10,000 awards (grant only). The programme is delivered through regional partners including Opportunity North East, Elevator, GrowBiz, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and South of Scotland Enterprise. Applications are assessed based on six key criteria: Value Proposition, Team, Impact, Customer Focus, Business Growth, and Utilisation of Funding. The competition involves a two-stage process: first-stage written application with a 3-minute video pitch, followed by live pitching finals for successful applicants. The programme targets early-stage businesses headquartered in Scotland that have been in operation for less than 5 years and have the potential to achieve cumulative sales of £200,000 over the next 3 years.

SWEF Start-up Grants

SWEF Start-Up grants are for individuals who are in the early stages of setting up their business, or whose business is currently earning less than £500 per month. This grant provides up to £500 to help get things off the ground. The funding can support essential start-up costs such as equipment, materials, stock, website creation, product development, or training. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis once a month, and applicants must be between 18-30 years old. The program requires that applicants have taken significant steps to establish their business, with visible business presence through social media, website, or marketing materials. Grants must be spent within one month of receipt of funds, and businesses must be able to generate revenue within 3 months of application.