Glasgow City Innovation District Venture Studio has partnered with Glasgow Riverside Innovation District and social enterprise Dechomai to launch a new initiative to empower aspiring entrepreneurs from Ethnic Minority backgrounds, as well as female entrepreneurs.
The Ignite programme is part of the Venture Studio’s Innovate Pillar, which focuses on driving social innovation. Supported by Glasgow City Council and UK Shared Prosperity Funding, the initiative aims to equip participants with bespoke coaching, mentoring, and business support to foster entrepreneurial success.
The 6-week programme will commence in January 2025 offering targeted support to people from ethnic minority backgrounds and females who may never have engaged in business and enterprise before but are interested in starting their own company or working within the startup space. Individual circumstances and cultural sensitivity are key features of the programme, with free childcare and flexible programme dates available to ensure accessibility and equal opportunity to aspiring applicants.
The programme, delivered by Glasgow-based social enterprise Dechomai, is open to residents within the Glasgow City Council area. Drop-in clinics have already begun across the city to provide potential applicants with more information about the programme and application process.
Alisdair Gunn, Director of Glasgow City Innovation District, said: "We are delighted to unveil the GCID Venture Studio Innovate Pillar with the launch of the Minority Business Matters programme. This collaboration with Glasgow Riverside Innovation District and Dechomai reflects our commitment to fostering inclusive innovation and supporting diverse entrepreneurial talent. Dechomai’s proven expertise in working with diverse communities will be instrumental in empowering new founders and contributing to Glasgow’s vibrant business ecosystem."
Bayile Adeoti, Founder and Managing Director of Dechomai, said: "We’re excited to partner with two of Glasgow’s Innovation Districts on this transformative programme. The response at our drop-in clinics has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re thrilled to provide tailored support to help build a more diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial community in Glasgow."
Applications for the Minority Business Matters programme are now open.