About the Fund

What is the Ecosystem Fund?

The Ecosystem Fund supports organisations and activities that strengthen Scotland's entrepreneurial ecosystem. It provides grants to help deliver high-impact 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 Ecosystem Fund offers funding from £10,000 to £40,000 per project. The maximum grant available is £40,000.

Eligibility

Who can apply to the Fund?

The Fund is open, but not limited to:

• Ecosystem builders (incubators, accelerators, support organisations)
• Industry associations and third sector organisations
• Universities, colleges and educational institutions
• Established companies delivering partnership projects
• Private organisations with entrepreneurial development expertise
  
  

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.

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.

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
  
  

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 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. However, please note that each organisation will only be awarded funding for one project, even if multiple applications are submitted.

Application Process

What is the application process?

The process begins with an initial screening form. You'll then complete a detailed application covering project overview, impact and outcomes, delivery approach, future plans, experience and capability and budget.

When do applications open?

Applications will open on 26th February 2026. Information sessions will be held to provide guidance on the application process.

What is the deadline for applications?

The application deadline is 5pm on the 26th March 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

How long will it take to receive a decision?

Decisions are expected on the 8th May 2026 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 criteria (Impact Potential 35%, Value for Money 25%, Delivery Capability 20%, Future Sustainability 10%, Innovation and Creativity 10%)

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?

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 other Scottish Government entrepreneurship funds?

The Ecosystem Fund is part of a suite of entrepreneurship support funds run by the Scottish Government. While the Ecosystem Fund takes a broad approach to strengthening the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem, there are three complementary funds that may be more suitable depending on your project's primary focus and scale:

• Community Fund: For grassroots, community-level initiatives delivered by individuals, informal networks and small organisations
• Pathways Fund: Specifically designed to support projects that focus on removing barriers for underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship
• Entrepreneurial Education Fund: Specifically designed to support projects that inspire and introduce entrepreneurship to young people and students in schools, colleges and universities
  
  

Women's entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial education remain strategic priorities. While your project doesn't need to focus exclusively on these areas, Ecosystem Fund proposals that thoughtfully incorporate these elements as part of their broader ecosystem development objectives will be considered in the assessment process.

If your project's primary aim is to support underrepresented entrepreneurs or to deliver entrepreneurial education at scale, please consider applying to the relevant specialist fund instead.

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.

Financial Information

Can we include staff costs?

Staff costs directly attributed to the project delivery are eligible. This includes contractors, freelancers or existing staff where they are working on activities that are different from their day-to-day role. We do not fund staff to undertake work they would be doing anyway as part of their usual responsibilities, but we recognise that delivering new projects often requires dedicated staff time beyond business-as-usual activities.

Do we need to secure match funding?

Match funding is not required but is encouraged. 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.

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 2027.

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 February and March 2026 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 enquiries@ecosystemfund.co.uk 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.

Can I see examples of previously funded projects?

Case studies are available from previous rounds on the website.

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.