News

All the latest news about Firstport and the social entrepreneurs we support.

The Catalyst Fund: Evolving to Meet New Needs

Since 2021, the Catalyst Fund has backed ambitious social enterprises to grow, deploying flexible finance to help create social and environmental impact. But the landscape, makeup and needs of social enterprises are evolving, and so is the Catalyst Fund.

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The Catalyst Fund: Evolving to Meet New Needs

The Access Report One Year On: Tracking Our Progress

, Social Innovation Challenge

In May 2024, Social Investment Scotland (SIS), Firstport, and Dechomai published The Access Report, unveiling the key barriers preventing ethnic minority social entrepreneurs in Scotland from accessing social investment.  

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The Access Report One Year On: Tracking Our Progress

Introducing Our LaunchMe Spring Cohort 2025

Financial & Business Services, LaunchMe

What do ice climbing, ADHD coaching, martial arts, and native tree nurseries share? They’re all part of our incredible LaunchMe Spring 2025 cohort – a group of 19 passionate social entrepreneurs!

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Introducing Our LaunchMe Spring Cohort 2025

Social Enterprise Boost Fund re-opens for applications

The Social Enterprise Boost Fund is once more welcoming applications from individuals looking to start and expand social enterprises in South Tyneside and Sunderland.

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Social Enterprise Boost Fund re-opens for applications

Step Up: Interest-Free Loans for Social Enterprises

Financial & Business Services, Step Up

This article answers frequently asked questions about the Step Up programme, including eligibility, repayments, and loan terms.

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Step Up: Interest-Free Loans for Social Enterprises