Empowering the next generation in Ayrshire Family businesses.

Supported by J C Peacock and Co. Ltd celebrating 150 years of being a family business.

Up to £15,000 to explore a bold idea.

Are you part of a family-run business in Ayrshire and have an idea you’ve always wanted to try? Something new, something different, something that could shape the future of your business—or your own path within it?

We’re launching the Ayrshire Next Generation Enterprise Fund, and we want to hear from you. This is your chance to receive up to £15,000 to develop a project, test an idea, or invest in your own growth as a future business leader.

Whether it’s digital innovation, new products or services, sustainability projects, skills training, or a creative pivot—you bring the ambition, and we’ll help back it.

Who Can Apply:

• Aged approx. 18–35
• At least 2^nd generation in family business
• Involved in a family-run business based in Ayrshire
• Passionate about trying something new—either within the business or alongside it
• Willing to share your journey at three meet-ups over 12 months (launch, 6-month, and 1-year)

What You’ll Get:

• Up to £15,000 in funding
• The chance to connect, collaborate, and learn alongside other next-generation entrepreneurs

Application Criteria

Who Can Apply:

• Individuals aged approximately 18–35
• At least 2^nd generation in family business
• Must be part of a family-run business based in Ayrshire
• Actively involved in the business or positioned to take on a future role
• Must have a genuine new idea, project, or development goal they wish to explore
• Open to sharing their journey with peers at 6 and 12-month check-ins
• Committed to ethical, responsible, and community-minded enterprise

Eligible Project Types (examples):

• New product or service development
• Digital transformation or process improvement
• Diversification into a new market or customer segment
• Sustainability or circular economy initiatives
• Skills training, mentorship, or specialist consultancy
• Innovation or tech trials within the existing business

Fund Conditions:

• Funding of up to £15,000 will be awarded
• Funds must be used within 12 months
• Applicants must attend:
• Launch Event
• 6-Month Progress Review
• 12-Month Peer Sharing Session
• A short written and/or presentation will be required at each check-in

How to Apply

Applications open: 1/5/25 - Deadline to apply: 1/7/25

For more information, or to receive an application form, contact:[email protected]

This is more than a grant. It’s a community, a launchpad, and a vote of confidence in your vision.
If you’re ready to take a leap—we want to hear from you.