New regional awards celebrate entrepreneurs

This new pilot award, aimed at businesses across four regions, is the latest initiative in the long-standing relationship between the Scottish Government and Scottish EDGE. Funds were allocated through a competitive process, which involved pitching to a panel of judges, and delivered in collaboration with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

The awards ceremony took place at the business and innovation centre, Horizon Scotland, Forres, with Andrew Slorance of Phoenix Instinct doing the honours as keynote speaker. The event follows on from three other regional awards, which took place in Aberdeen, Perth and Kinross and Dundee.

Of the twelve shortlisted finalists, Thistle and Cloth and Highland Domes took home £10,000 for handstitched kiltmaking and geodesic structures respectively. Crofter’s Kitchen. Awarded the £15,000 prizes were outdoor sauna company, Haar Sauna, and Crofter's Kitchen - an outdoor farm-to-fork and dock-to-dish eatery. The main prize of the evening, £50,000, was awarded to Rescue Winch Ltd, a revolutionary paddlesport safety equipment company.

As well as financial support, winners will also benefit from becoming EDGE Alumni, granting them access to the organisation’s network of contacts and business acumen.

Caroline Maclellan, senior innovation manager at HIE, said:

“Regional EDGE showcases the incredible innovation and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in our region. It offers ambitious entrepreneurs with crucial funding and support needed to bring their visions to life. We are proud to support these high-growth businesses as they contribute to a vibrant and sustainable economy. We’re delighted to be working with our partners to deliver the new Regional EDGE programme. It’s a great opportunity for rural entrepreneurs and we look forward to helping them win a share of the prize pot.”

Evelyn McDonald, CEO of Scottish EDGE said:

"Regional EDGE awards enable us to back businesses to not only achieve transformative growth but also play an essential role in building a thriving Scottish economy.

"The Highlands and Islands final served as a powerful platform to showcase the region’s exceptional entrepreneurial talent. We extend our sincere gratitude to Highlands and Islands Enterprise for their invaluable support in delivering this initiative and for playing a pivotal role in nurturing the innovative businesses on display.”

Scottish EDGE last month launched Round 25 of its country-wide funding competition, with awards of up to £150,000 on offer. Applications will be accepted until 27^th February via the Scottish EDGE website at www.scottishedge.com.