Deadline: 02-Apr-2026
The Converge Challenge invites applications from innovators in Scotland with high-potential business ideas grounded in strong intellectual property (IP). Selected participants receive bespoke business training, expert mentoring, access to a professional network, and a prize fund exceeding £85,000, shared between a winner and a runner-up. The program aims to develop scalable, sustainable businesses with real-world impact and long-term growth potential.
Program Overview
The Converge Challenge is designed to accelerate high-potential business ventures in Scotland by providing:
-
Training in business development and market readiness
-
Funding incentives through a prize fund
-
Networking opportunities with mentors, industry experts, and peers
-
Integration into a supportive alumni network for ongoing guidance
The program targets projects that are:
-
Based on strong intellectual property foundations
-
Scalable and commercially viable
-
Innovative and capable of creating sustainable impact
Funding Details
-
Prize Fund: Over £85,000
-
Distribution: Shared between winner and runner-up
-
Additional Support: Mentoring, professional development, and alumni network access
Who is Eligible?
Eligible participants include:
-
Innovators and entrepreneurs with high-calibre projects
-
Teams or individuals aiming to build sustainable businesses in Scotland
-
Ventures with clear IP strategy and commercial potential
Program Benefits
Participants gain access to:
-
Bespoke Business Training – Delivered by experienced entrepreneurs to develop propositions and market readiness
-
Expert Mentorship – Guidance on strategy, IP protection, and growth opportunities
-
Networking Opportunities – Connections with peers, investors, and industry professionals
-
Prize Fund – Financial support to scale innovative projects
-
Alumni Community – Long-term support and access to a network of past participants
How to Apply
-
Prepare a comprehensive business proposition with strong IP foundations
-
Highlight commercial potential, scalability, and social or economic impact
-
Submit the application through the official Converge Challenge portal
-
Ensure readiness to engage in training, mentoring, and networking activities throughout the program
Why It Matters
The Converge Challenge supports Scotland’s innovation ecosystem by:
-
Encouraging commercialisation of novel ideas
-
Strengthening the IP strategy and market readiness of early-stage ventures
-
Building a community of entrepreneurs across sectors
-
Driving economic growth and sustainable business development
Tips for a Strong Application
-
Clearly define intellectual property assets and protections
-
Demonstrate market potential and scalability
-
Highlight team expertise and capacity
-
Show alignment with economic, social, or technological impact
-
Include a clear plan for funding use and business development
Conclusion
The Converge Challenge offers Scottish innovators a comprehensive package of training, mentoring, funding, and networking to transform high-potential business ideas into sustainable, scalable companies. With a prize fund exceeding £85,000 and long-term alumni support, the program fosters innovation, commercial success, and lasting impact across Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
For more information, visit Converge.