A word from the Provost


Sheena Richardson Provost East Lothian Council


This is my last contribution to Business Buzz as I have decided to stand down from public office after 5 years as East Lothian’s Provost and 9 years serving with the council.


I have thoroughly enjoyed being Provost and having the opportunity to promote the county at meetings, seminars and functions both across the country and occasionally abroad.


I firmly believe that East Lothian is a county that can clearly demonstrate business innovation and excellence in a number of areas. In recent years we have seen how partnership working with local businesses, clubs, council and many individuals has resulted in the successful launching of East Lothian – Scotland’s Golf Coast. The collective appreciation of the opportunity and desirability of East Lothian as a golfing location has resulted in the county featuring in many golf tourism publications.


Food and drink is another area which has seen the success of partnership. Growers, producers, suppliers and chefs recognise the strength and importance of collaborative working and are beginning to reap the rewards of the East Lothian branding.


I have been impressed over the past five years to discover the range of business start ups that in many cases also promote the attractions of life in East Lothian. As the county continues to grow I am sure that the local economy will also continue to adapt and develop whilst retaining the unique character of East Lothian.


I wish you well and will continue to promote the county when I am out and about.


Social Entrepreneurs Fund - New Deadlines Announced


Applications are invited from entrepreneurial individuals across Scotland looking to set up and run a business with a social and/or environmental purpose. The Social Entrepreneurs Fund provides financial and business support to help get new enterprises off the ground.


The following three levels of Award are available through the Fund, depending on how far an idea has been developed:


•Level 0 Awards (up to £500) are primarily made through referrals.


•Level 1 Awards (£500 to £5,000) are for individuals who might need money to develop their business idea - for example, to test out a new idea.


•Level 2 Awards (up to £20,000) are for individuals who have progressed beyond this stage and are ready to go ahead with the idea and need resources to get going.


The scheme is open to any individual aged 16 and over and resident in Scotland who has a business idea and can demonstrate the need for assistance to make it reality. Successful applicants will have the drive and passion to turn their idea into reality and must have given thought to how the money and support will help develop their idea. Level 1 applications can be made at any time, with applications assessed on a monthly basis. Level 2 Awards are distributed four times a year.


The next deadline for Level 2 applications has been confirmed as 1 June 2012.


For more information visit: www.firstportfunding.org.uk


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