We have a packed blog this week, with lots of helpful events and updates for rural enterprises and communities, so we'll get right into it:
Perth & Kinross Loves Local
Perth and Kinross Business Partnership (PKBP) is supporting this year's Scotland Loves Local Week (August 26 – September 1) with a dedicated event for the local business community. The evening event in Perth on the 29 August is presented by PKBP and powered by GrowBiz. It will focus on the critical difference that choosing local and building local supply chains can mean to the future of our businesses, economy and communities. Book here.
Scottish EDGE
Scottish EDGE Round 24 is now open for applications until 2pm Wednesday 11 September 2024, with a total funding pot of £1.5million. Early-stage Scottish businesses can apply for either the Scottish EDGE, Social Enterprise EDGE, Young EDGE or Wild Card EDGE categories. Find out more and apply here, or book the free information workshop on Wednesday 28 August 2024 for support and advice on the competition process.
Futures for All
Futures for All is designed to support employers in Perth & Kinross to create new, sustainable job opportunities, including Modern Apprenticeships, for individuals who are currently unemployed. Up to £8000 is available to help with the additional costs involved. Employers will be expected to create meaningful, high-quality jobs that offer excellent training and development opportunities for the people of Perth & Kinross. Download the details here.
2024 Social Enterprise Census
If your organisation is driven by social or environmental goals and generates income through contracts or fees, InspirAlba want to hear from you. Your participation will ensure that the voices of social enterprises are well-represented, helping to shape the future of the sector. Closing on Friday, 6 September. Click here to take part.
Tay Cities SME Skills Fund
Small to Medium sized businesses throughout the Tay Cities region can access a £5,000 grant to up-skill or re-skill their workforces. The fund is being led by Dundee & Angus College (D&AC), joined with other training providers and business support partners. Find out more here.
The Consortium Model of Bidding for Bigger Contracts
Have you considered joining a consortium co-operative (with at least two other partners) to bid for larger contracts? Cooperative Development Scotland (CDS) and Supplier Development Programme (SDP) are set to host a free webinar on Wednesday 28 August from 10am to 11:30am to discuss all things relating to the consortium co-operative model. Book here.
Your Future Here
GrowBiz is joining the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Countryside Learning Scotland and a range of National Park businesses for a careers fair with a difference on the 12 September at Macdonald Aviemore Resort. From practical workshops and demonstrations, to one-to-one chats and live job and training opportunities, this is an exciting opportunity for 16-25 year olds to find out more about life and work in the National Park. Book your place here.
Perthshire Chamber 2024 Business Star Awards
Entries for these awards are now, with 16 categories available for businesses to nominate themselves and their employees. Entries close on 13th October. Find out more here.
Single Use Plastics Ban Survey
Resource Futures has been commissioned by Zero Waste Scotland to research the impact of Scottish Government’s ban on certain single use plastics. This involves a short survey (5 – 10 minutes), directed at organisations and businesses who are involved in the use of these items. Take the survey here by 9am on Tuesday 27 August.
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