Got a business idea? Pitch it and win funding!
Edinburgh College students have the opportunity to apply for grant funding of up to £5,000 to help turn a business idea into reality.
Through the once-a-year Edinburgh Merchant Company Enterprise Fund, students can apply for financial support to develop their business idea, purchase equipment, or take the next step with a start-up. Grants typically range between £500 and £5,000 and do not need to be repaid.
Successful applicants may be invited to pitch their idea in a Dragons’ Den–style session to a panel of experienced business professionals.
This is a great opportunity if you have an idea for:
• A new product or service
• A side business you want to grow
• A creative or digital start-up
• A social enterprise or community project
Not only could you secure funding, but you may also receive mentoring and support from experienced business leaders to help develop your idea further.
Funding decisions can be made quickly, so if you have an idea you’d like to explore, now is a great time to apply.
Friday 1 May 2026 - Closing Date for Applications
Friday 8 May 2026 - Applicants Invited / Rejected to Merchants’ Den
Thursday 28 May 2026 - Merchants’ Den in the Merchants’ Hall
Friday 5 June 2026 - Applicants informed of Merchants’ Den decisions
Friday 12 June 2026 - Funds to Successful Applicants Distributed
If you are interested, please contact Business Development Assistant Lewis Steen, who can help you with the application process and guide you through the next steps.