Innovate and get a windfall

Scotland’s development agency for social entrepreneurs and social enterprise is searching for the next round of social innovators.

Firstport is inviting entries for the 2017 Social Innovation Competition, which celebrates individuals and start-up companies in Scotland with imaginative ideas to solve social issues, with a focus on culture, heritage and tourism.

There are three £ 5000 awards – including the young social innovator category for under 30s – combined with tailored support to refine and develop winners’ ideas.

C o u n c i l l o r Ke n n y MacLaren, who represents Paisley Nor thwest, is encouraging people to apply.

He said: “This is a unique funding opportunity for local groups where they can apply for up to £5,000 to develop imaginative ideas to solve social issues.

“This competition provides local groups – or individuals – with a chance to develop new solutions to meet a social need, or address a need more effectively than what already exists.

“More information on Firstport and the Social Innovation Competition can be found online as well as from a series of drop- in sessions. The closest session takes place on Wednesday, September 13, in Glasgow.

“I would encourage local groups to go online and find out more about this funding opportunity.”