About the Fund
What is the Ecosystem Fund?
The Ecosystem Fund supports organisations, groups or individuals and activities that strengthen Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem. It provides grants to help deliver initiatives that create a more vibrant, connected, and accessible environment for Scottish entrepreneurs and startups. The Fund is designed as a flexible mechanism that can adapt to changing ecosystem needs, while promoting diversity, inclusion, and accessibility across Scotland's entrepreneurial landscape.
What is the maximum grant available?
The Fund offers two tiers of funding:
• Tier 1: £0 to £9,999
• Tier 2: £10,000 to £40,000
The maximum grant available is £40,000 per project.
Is there a minimum amount we can apply for?
No, we have removed the minimum threshold. We particularly encourage applications for small-scale, grassroots initiatives that may have been traditionally underserved by public sector funding. We believe these community-led activities are vital to nurturing Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem at the local level.
Eligibility
Who can apply to the Fund?
The Fund is open, but not limited to:
• Ecosystem builders (incubators, accelerators, support organisations, community groups)
• Industry associations and third sector organisations
• Universities, colleges, and educational institutions
• Established companies delivering partnership projects
• Private organisations with entrepreneurial development expertise
• Individuals/ informal networks bringing others together for collaboration opportunities.
Does my organisation need to be based in Scotland?
Your organisation must either be headquartered in Scotland or have significant operations based here. International collaborations are welcome as part of your project, but the lead applicant must have a substantial Scottish presence.
Can public sector organisations apply?
Local economic development groups and academic institutions are eligible. However, core government agencies and entities are not eligible to apply.
Are there any restrictions on who can apply?
Applicants must:
• Be headquartered in Scotland or have significant operations here
• Have no outstanding legal issues that could impede project delivery
• Comply with all relevant regulations and legal requirements applicable to the proposed project, including enhanced safeguarding measures for any projects involving minors or vulnerable groups
Our organisation is a for-profit company. Can we still apply?
Yes, private sector organisations can apply. The Fund is open to all sectors, provided the project benefits the wider ecosystem rather than just your organisation.
Can we apply for projects that may generate revenue?
You can apply for projects that may generate revenue, such as events where you plan to sell tickets. The Fund can help cover initial costs, gaps in funding or provide underwriting to test market viability. However, you must clearly demonstrate in your application:
• How the Fund's support is necessary to make the activity viable
• How any revenue generated will be reinvested to support the project's objectives
• How the activity contributes to wider ecosystem development beyond financial returns
We encourage sustainable models that may eventually become self-funding but expect Fund resources to focus on aspects that would not otherwise be commercially viable.
Can I apply as an individual entrepreneur?
The Fund supports activities benefiting multiple entrepreneurs rather than directly funding individual businesses. We welcome applications from individuals and informal networks who are connecting entrepreneurs and creating collaboration opportunities within Scotland's ecosystem. This is why we've removed the minimum funding threshold—to enable these grassroots initiatives to access support for their valuable ecosystem-building activities. We recognise that effective ecosystem support often emerges from less formalised groups that have traditionally struggled to access public funding.
Can a partnership or collaboration apply?
Yes, collaborative proposals are strongly encouraged. One organisation must be designated as the Lead Organisation, which will be responsible for the contractual obligations. All partners should be mentioned in your application.
Can we submit multiple applications?
If the projects are entirely distinct from one another with different objectives and outcomes, you may submit more than one application. Each proposal will be assessed on its own merits.
Application Process
What is the application process?
The process begins with an initial screening form common to all applicants. Based on the funding amount requested, you'll then complete either the Tier 1 or Tier 2 application form.
When do applications open?
Applications will open on the 22nd April 2025. Information sessions will be held to provide guidance on the application process.
What is the deadline for applications?
The application deadline will 5pm on the 20th May 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
How long will it take to receive a decision?
Decisions are expected end of June 2025 following the assessment period. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by email.
How will applications be assessed?
Applications will be assessed through a three-stage process:
1. Eligibility screening
2. Specialist assessment against tier-specific criteria
3. Final panel review and decisions
Will I receive feedback if my application is unsuccessful?
Yes, all applicants will receive feedback on their applications upon request, regardless of the outcome.
Project Requirements
What types of projects will the Fund support?
The Fund supports a wide range of initiatives that strengthen Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as:
• Community-building and networking initiatives
• Projects connecting Scottish startups to international markets
• Initiatives improving access to investment
• Sustainable impact projects benefiting local communities
• Innovation in entrepreneurial support delivery
What does "future planning" mean for my application?
For Tier 1 applications (up to £9,999), we simply ask you to consider how your project might continue or evolve after the funding period and what other resources you might access.
For Tier 2 applications (£10,000-£40,000), we encourage you to think about:
• How the project might continue or evolve after funding ends
• Potential resources or partnerships that could support future activities
• The lasting impact you hope to achieve
• How you'll capture and share learning
• Plans for commercial viability or sustainable funding after the grant period ends
This focus on future planning helps ensure that projects create lasting value for Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
How does the Ecosystem Fund relate to the Pathways and Entrepreneurial Education funds?
The Ecosystem Fund is separate from but complementary to the previous Pathways and Entrepreneurial Education funds. While those funds had specific focuses on women's entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial education respectively, the Ecosystem Fund takes a broader approach to strengthening the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem.
This doesn't mean these priorities have diminished in importance. Women's entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial education remain strategic priorities, and we welcome proposals that incorporate these elements within broader ecosystem development approaches.
So, while your project doesn't need to focus exclusively on women's entrepreneurship or entrepreneurial education, proposals that thoughtfully incorporate these elements as part of their broader ecosystem development objectives will be viewed favourably in the assessment process. Further funding may become available in these areas later in the year so we may retain your application should opportunities arise.
What if our project idea overlaps with existing support provision?
Your application should clearly articulate how your proposed activity differs from or enhances existing support. We're looking for initiatives that fill gaps rather than duplicate existing provision.
How important is innovation in project proposals?
We encourage fresh thinking in how to support entrepreneurs, which might include new types of support, innovative delivery methods or creative ways to reach underserved communities.
Do we need to have private sector support to apply?
While not mandatory, applications that demonstrate partnerships with private sector organisations or have secured additional resources will be viewed favourably, particularly for Tier 2 applications.
Financial Information
Can we include existing staff costs?
Generally, existing staff costs representing business-as-usual operations are not eligible. However, if staff are redeployed specifically to deliver this project, and this is clearly justified in your application, these costs may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Do we need to secure match funding?
Match funding is not required but is encouraged, particularly for Tier 2 applications. Projects demonstrating additional resources leveraged will score higher on the value for money criterion.
When will payments be made?
Payments will be made in instalments based on agreed milestones throughout your project. The specific payment schedule will be outlined in your grant offer letter.
What records do we need to keep?
Awardees must retain all records, receipts, and invoices for a minimum period of three years following the close of the contract. Payment of the grant will only be made upon submission of proof of eligible expenditure.
What is the total budget for the Fund?
The Fund has an initial allocation for 2025/26. Additional funding may be released later in the financial year.
Will there be other rounds of the Ecosystem Fund in the future?
The Ecosystem Fund is envisioned as an ongoing mechanism to support Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Future rounds may include domain/industry/policy specific focuses based on emerging priorities and opportunities. This round is broad in scope, but future iterations might target specific sectors, technologies, regional priorities, or policy objectives.
Delivery and Reporting
When must projects be delivered by?
All funded activities must be completed by 31st March 2026.
What happens if we can't deliver the project as planned?
If circumstances change, contact your designated Inspirent contact immediately. They'll work with you to explore solutions. Only if no alternative can be found would the contract be voided.
Can we change aspects of our project after funding is awarded?
Minor changes are expected and acceptable (e.g., adjusted event dates, participant numbers). However, significant changes must be discussed with and approved by your Inspirent contact in advance.
What reporting will be required?
You'll need to provide:
• Regular progress updates during 'check-ins' with your Inspirent contact
• Reports on agreed milestones
• Original or electronic paid receipts or invoices for each item being claimed and proof of payment
• A final project report
• Completion of a survey at the end of the project
• Participation in a follow-up survey 12-18 months later
Getting Help
Who can I contact for more information?
For questions about the application process or guidance, please contact enquiries@ecosystemfund.co.uk . Support sessions will also be available during the application window.
Will there be information sessions about the Fund?
Yes, information sessions will be held in April 2025 to provide guidance on the application process. Details will be announced on the Fund website.
Can I get help with accessibility needs for the application process?
Yes, please contact to discuss any accessibility requirements you have, and we'll provide appropriate support.
Where can I find more information?
Detailed information is available on the Fund website at ecosystemfund.co.uk
Can I see examples of previously funded projects?
Case studies are available on ecosystemfund.co.uk . However, please note that this round has different criteria and priorities from previous rounds.
What should I do if I'm not sure if my project is eligible?
Contact the Inspirent team at enquiries@ecosystemfund.co.uk prior to submitting your application if you're unsure about eligibility or have any other questions.