Companies with an environmental focus are being urged to apply for the chance to pitch on stage at the UN’s global climate change summit in Glasgow – to win a prize of £100,000.
Scottish Edge, the high growth potential business funding scheme, is inviting entrepreneurs to apply for the chance to take part in the Dragons Den-style competition at Cop26 in the city in November.
Potential entrants must apply by August 16 to be able to pitch to a panel of high-profile judges at the event, which is backed by banking giant RBS.
The new Net Zero EDGE award reflects Scotland’s drive to be net zero by 2045. It celebrates the role that innovative business people and entrepreneurs are playing in making this target achievable.
Judith Cruickshank, managing director, business banking, Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “Our proud partnership with Scottish EDGE over the last decade has helped identify and support some of Scotland’s most talented businesses.
“As Cop26 comes to Glasgow in November, awareness of the importance of making sustainability and climate friendly practices core to how you operate has never been greater.
“We hope that this new award category offers well deserved recognition for those organisations leading the way in the transition to net zero – and inspires others to do the same.”
Steven Hamill, chief operating officer at Scottish EDGE, said: “Tackling climate change has never been more important, especially with Cop26 set to put the spotlight on Scotland’s net zero targets later this year. We want to recognise the great work that Scottish businesses, from a range of sectors, are doing to help deliver net zero.
“Thanks to support from Royal Bank of Scotland, we have been able to launch the Net Zero EDGE award which gives start-ups in Scotland the chance to be a part of Cop26 and raise additional funding. We would urge businesses to apply ahead of the deadline of 16th August.”
Applicants can apply for this category as normal through the Scottish EDGE website and all eligible applicants that meet the climate award criteria will be automatically considered for the Cop26 pitching competition.