The Guild (Dumfries) C.I.C are thrilled to announce that we have been successful in our application for a Start It Award from First Port. Funding is for individuals with an innovative business idea which addresses a social, environmental and/or community issue. The Awards Programme is highly competitive. Of those applications that are eligible, they support the ideas that can provide the strongest evidence of their business potential, and their ability to create significant, lasting social impact.
Our ambitious plans are to develop a community space that will offer multiple, affordable rentable concessions in our shop, have both studio and workshop space, meeting rooms, a venue for exhibitions and events plus a community kitchen. These will be available to rent to our community of makers, a variety of local groups, businesses and organisations, offering a central place where people can meet, work, create and collaborate, with a strong ethos of encouraging participation & social inclusion.
“We are overjoyed and honoured to receive this award which will help us to get our idea off the ground. The award will support us as we develop our vision and bring our business plans to life.”
The Awards Programme is funded by the Scottish Government’s Social Entrepreneurs Fund (SEF), which since 2009 has invested almost £4m in individuals across Scotland to start up new social enterprises (as of September 2017). SEF looks for individuals who have a focus on the business side of their idea and are looking to create a long-term solution to a social issue.
Our aim is to develop a sustainable business which will reinvest profits into our community by improving and extending the range of facilities and services provided. This will help our community develop and increase its impact on the economy of Dumfries and Galloway and enhance its reputation as a destination for lovers of locally made quality arts and crafts and artisan goods.
We are thankful to Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway for all their support and advice during our application process. The award will support us as we develop our vision and bring our business plans to life.
PHOTO CREDIT: Galina Walls Photography