Free tickets are available now for the event, which will also see around 20 businesses pitch their ideas to a panel of Scotland’s top entrepreneurs and business advisers.
On the day, Mr Paphitis, whose business empire spans retail, property, finance and consumer goods, will take part in a conversation with fellow high-profile entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter, whose Hunter Foundation is one of the key supporters of Scottish EDGE.
Mr Paphitis, who returned to the Dragons’ Den panel this year, is set to inspire the Scottish EDGE Round 15 finalists who will be pitching to an expert panel of judges throughout the day.
The event will culminate in an evening awards ceremony which Mr Paphitis will also attend and there will be an opportunity for guests to hear him in conversation with Scottish EDGE chief executive officer Evelyn McDonald.
Scottish EDGE is the UK’s biggest funding competition for small businesses. It supports Scotland’s most innovative, high-growth potential start-ups with up to £150,000 in cash and provides a business support package that includes mentoring, support and signposting to alternative finance. It is awarded as 40% grant and 60% loan which is paid back to help fellow entrepreneurs on their pathway to success.
In addition to the Hunter Foundation, it is also supported by Royal Bank of Scotland, the Scottish Government and Scottish Enterpriseand has a vital role to play in the country’s economic growth. In the 14 rounds to date, Scottish EDGE has awarded more than £14 million to over 360 Scottish businesses.
Theo Paphitis said:
I’m passionate about creating and supporting entrepreneurs, so I’m delighted to have the chance to talk to a range of exciting Scottish start-ups at the Scottish EDGE awards next month. Scotland is well-known for its innovation, so I’m looking forward to meeting the success stories of the future.
"It’s great to be able to support the vital work that Scottish EDGE does in helping start-ups grow and thrive.
Scottish EDGE, chief executive officer Evelyn McDonald, said:
Once again the Scottish EDGE awards have attracted a really high calibre of entries from entrepreneurs across Scotland. Along with the judges, I’m looking forward to hearing their pitches on finals day. And we’re pleased to be welcoming someone as inspiring as Theo Paphitis to join us.
If you'd like to attend the EDGE 15 Live Final and Awards, book a ticket below:
