The First Minister's Start-Up Challenge 2026 | Website Now Live!

22 May 2026

The First Minister's Start-Up Challenge returns for 2026 this month! The website for this year's fund is now live. 

The Start-Up Challenge is designed to help young people aged 18-30 in Scotland to turn ambition into action. 

They're looking for young people who have faced disadvantage or barriers but have drive and potential to join a six-month fast-track programme packed with weekly masterclasses, hands-on workshops and Entrepreneurial Apprenticeships with rising Scottish founders.

You’ll take on monthly micro-challenges, with the opportunity to receive a £500 “Test Your Business” grant, with those ready to launch eligible to apply for a £5,000 start-up grant. At the end of the programme, one winner will be awarded £30,000 to dedicate a full year to developing their business.

Applications are due to open Tuesday, 26 May. 

Find out more here.