Starter for 6 is an enterprise training programme that supports up and coming creative entrepreneurs across Scotland.  By helping to turn creative ideas into successful businesses, the programme not only contributes towards the success of the Scottish economy but also raises the awareness and profile of talented entrepreneurs in Scotland. 

Cultural Enterprise Office (CEO) is delivering Starter for 6 in 2010 and 2011 with funding provided by Creative Scotland’s Innovation Fund (via Scottish Government) using a tried and tested model,that has supported participants for the past three years.

The Main Programmme runs once a year in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, Dundee and South of Scotland, in order to reach as broad a spectrum of creative talent as possible. The launch of the Fast Track Programme in May 2010 offers an additional opportunity to the creative community. Over the past three years, Starter for 6 has received over 600 applications, accepted 210 participants and awarded 84 grants of up to £10,000. 2009's participants profiles can be viewed here.  

What does the programme provide successful applicants with?

• Four enterprise training sessions designed to provide you with the business skills to turn your idea into a reality.  The sessions cover anything from costing, pricing and marketing to pitching and presentation skills, ultimately providing you with all of the content and confidence required to build a rich business plan.
   
• Peer Mentoring. Our mentors are previous Starter for 6 participants who not only share the same experience but are also only a few years ahead of you in terms of establishing their business.  Our mentors and mentees meet once a month for four months.
   
• Telephone coaching support has developed alongside the programme and provides participants with further development tools.  This service is carried out between the four training sessions. 
   
• The opportunity to network and share ideas with like minded entrepreneurs in training sessions and events.  Workshops build mini-communities where people openly discuss their ideas and offer support to others.
   
• The opportunity to pitch for up to £10,000 of grant funding at the end of the training programme in order to take your business forward. 

Applications for the next Starter for 6 Main Programme open in November 2010