First Tracks – The UK’S First Cycling and Outdoor Business Incubator Programme.

It delivers a programme of core business support from fantastic business coach professionals but also offers a unique selection of sessions that deliver a wealth of cycling and other relevant industry expertise that is not available elsewhere.

First Tracks is for Entrepreneurs that are starting out on their business journey. Applicants are welcome from both the South of Scotland and from the rest of the UK but must be able to travel to Glentress for some sessions.

All you need to apply is;

• have a new idea you want to turn into a real product or service offer
• desire to develop the skills needed to set up and run a successful business or organisation
• you may have experience operating as a freelancer or as a micro-business or no previous experience
• you may want to develop a diversified part of an existing business

• Guidance and coaching tailored to your individual business needs or idea in both group and 1-2-1 settings while networking within the First Tracks cohort.

• First tracks will help you build the solid foundations you need for business growth and looks to create a strong mindset with resilience, confidence and the skills needed to make robust business decisions.
• The programme allows you to select add on group sessions on specific topics that are relevant to your business: led by bicycle and outdoor industry professionals.
• A new network of likeminded entrepreneurs and businesses who want to work together to share their experience and knowledge of building and growing a business
• There will be a range of inspiring speakers presenting on related topics and with inspirational business stories to get you stoked to get started on your journey!
• Networking and focus group session where you can test your ideas with the cohort and with external enthusiasts in the market if you feel ready.
• Learn all about opportunities for Funding and Investment: gain the confidence to identify, approach funders, and secure funding.
• Access to a huge network of possible innovation, academic and research support both at Edinburgh Napier but also across the European networks.
• Post program support with an enterprise agency advisor from SOSE, access to ongoing support network from Napier Bright Red Triangle, and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland.
• If you belong to an under-represented group and are located in the South of Scotland you could be eligible to receive a direct £1,000 grant.

We are accepting applications from November 8th to December 31st.

The programme runs for 8 weeks from 20th January 2025 and there will be compulsory 1-2-1 sessions most weeks with a business coach (expected to be online)

Compulsory attendance is expected at a network and focus group session in week 7 at Glentress Peel.

A mix of online and hybrid specialist sessions and talks that will be adapted to the cohort. These will include;

• Sector specific marketing advice
• Cycling sector regulation and safety from the Bicycle Association of Great Britain
• Market data session from the Bicycle Association of Great Britain
• Circular economy and sustainability guidance
• Adventure Tourism data session

There is no catch, it is free to join and funded by a combination of the partners involved.

While First Tracks is technically based in the South of Scotland it is open to anyone located in the UK who feels they would benefit from the programme and are prepared to travel here for some sessions. In the event of oversubscription, the preference will be for those located in Scotland.

The core programme delivery is co-hosted between SOSE and Edinburgh Napier University;

For Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders or companies actively looking to set up or relocate in these areas then your 1-2-1 sessions will be delivered by a experienced business coach from SOSE.

Anyone in the rest of the UK can still apply, and their 1-2-1 support will be delivered from the team at Edinburgh Napier’s Bright Red Triangle entrepreneur and business specialists.

All participant are expected to travel to Glentress in the Scottish Borders for some of the programme.

This Joint approach between the delivery partners we hope will deliver a strong cohort of applicants and breadth of experience from across the country. This will ensure you get as much as possible from fellow participants and the specialist expertise on offer. You will receive the same seamless experience and ensures access to the best after programme support.

“First Tracks”: The UK’s First Cycling and Outdoor Business Incubator Programme

Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS), South of Scotland Enterprise and Edinburgh Napier University, are excited to announce the launch of “First Tracks,” the UK’s first dedicated incubator programme for entrepreneurs in the cycling and outdoor sectors. Designed to support innovators with new products or services, this unique 8-week programme combines expert business guidance with industry-specific insights to help participants bring their ideas to life.

The programme is open to all those with innovative ideas, either new start-ups or existing businesses, who are looking to develop a new product or service, from across the UK and will have a mixture of online sessions and some in-person sessions.

First Tracks provides a supportive environment for budding entrepreneurs. The programme features a mix of one-to-one business advice and interactive group sessions, ensuring that each participant receives tailored support and the opportunity to learn from peers.

What sets First Tracks apart from other incubator programmes is its unparalleled access to expertise within the cycling and outdoor industries. Participants will engage with seasoned professionals and mentors who understand the challenges and opportunities unique to these sectors, providing invaluable insights and connections. Entrepreneurs will leave with the solid foundations for business growth, and the confidence and skills to make robust business decisions.

“First Tracks is more than just an incubator; it’s a community where passion for cycling and the outdoors meets entrepreneurship,” said Ed Ibbetson, Regional Development Coordinator at DMBinS. “We’re committed to empowering innovators to develop products and services that not only thrive in the market but also enhance the cycling and outdoor experience for all.”

Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of South of Scotland Enterprise, said:

“We are delighted to be a key partner in this new targeted incubator programme for cycling and outdoor recreation businesses.

“Encouraging and growing entrepreneurship in the South of Scotland is a key focus for SOSE and we know there is huge talent, innovation and passion in this sector that we can help to thrive.

“The First Tracks programme will help to awaken that talent and create new offerings in the cycling sector, at the same time as opening up opportunities for our people and communities to flourish.”

Nick Fannin, Head of Enterprise at Bright Red Triangle, Edinburgh Napier University’s enterprise hub, said:

“We’re proud to support First Tracks and champion innovation in the cycling and outdoor sectors.

“With initiatives like the MTB Innovation Centre and the Lost Shore Surf Resort, Edinburgh Napier is committed to advancing these industries.

“First Tracks offers participants unique access to academic resources and business expertise, empowering them to bring impactful ideas to life.

“We’re excited to support entrepreneurs ready to shape the future of outdoor experiences.”

Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply now for this transformative programme. Applications will be accepted until December 13th, 2024, and participants will have the opportunity to shape the future of the cycling and outdoor industries.