Scotland's third sector has been given a 'massive boost' with the launch of two new programmes to help enterprising organisations grow and operate more efficiently. The Just Enterprise programme and the Enterprise Growth Fund are accessed through a new online access point at www.justenterprise.org.uk

Just Enterprise business support is available for social entrepreneurs and Enterprising Third Sector Organisations. A range of support from a telephone advisory service, one to one development support, business consultancy and workshops, learning programmes and leadership courses are available.

Just Enterprise will deliver business support and learning services across Scotland and will integrate for the first time, start up, business support and learning and development services. Successful applicants to the programme will receive a range of support including client management advisory services, feasibility studies, business planning, marketing, financial management and developing the sustainability of an Enterprising Third Sector.

Finance Secretary John Swinney launched the programmes on Monday 18th July at the offices of Specialisterne in Glasgow. The social enterprise, which trains people with Autism Spectrum Disorders, has built the online access point for both programmes.

Mr Swinney said: "Social enterprises, voluntary organisations and community organisations play an important part in Scottish society. They can deliver superb services, from creating employment opportunities to connecting with most the vulnerable people in our society.

"These two new programmes will work closely together to make sure that the organisations we fund benefit from appropriate business support.

Gerry Higgins, CEiS Chief Executive Officer, said: “An Enterprising Third Sector deserves high-quality business support and learning services delivered by those that understand the sector. Just Enterprise will provide scaled-up, joined up business development services for Enterprising Third Sector Organisations across Scotland. Our goal is net growth for the sector. That means increasing the number of new organisations and the value of existing organisations. Just Enterprise is delighted the Scottish Government has continued to support the sector through the launch of this initiative.”

The Wise Group with partners CEiS, DSL and the Social Value Lab, has been awarded the contract to manage and administer a £4 million Scottish Government Fund to support Growth and development of the Third Sector in Scotland. Enterprise Growth Fund will be awarding grants between £25,000 and £200,000 to support long term objectives. Awards will be made to those organisations that demonstrate the greatest potential for growth and sustainability. The fund will invest in organisational services and structures and will be open to applications from late August. For more information call 0141 303 3131.

For further information on Just Enterprise and the Enterprise Growth Fund and to apply for support, visit our website at www.justenterprise.org.