A new enterprise programme starting next month which hopes to inspire a generation of Aberdeen social entrepreneurs is looking for recruits.
The Sparking Change initiative, delivered by the University of Aberdeen in partnership with Converge, Scotland’s national entrepreneurship programme for academic founders, aims to equip city residents with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to make a positive impact in society.
Open to any member of the local community who has not searched for work in the last four weeks, the fully-funded programme will connect participants with a variety of experts to help them identify problems in society, brainstorm ideas and create workable solutions that drive lasting and positive change for people in the region and beyond.
Five workshops will run between December and February, covering a range of topics built around the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), from creating sustainable cities and communities to achieving zero hunger, clean energy and addressing climate action.
The programme will culminate in a final showcase event in March where entrepreneurs will be able to pitch their ideas in the hope of securing funding. A prize fund of £10,000 is available, made up of smaller awards and grants for the best overall ideas.
Sparking Change is funded by Aberdeen City Council through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Professor John Barrow from the University of Aberdeen, said: “The SDGs are a call for us to end poverty, protect our planet and ensure that by 2030 everyone can enjoy peace and prosperity. Our Sparking Change programme is designed to empower economically inactive individuals - whether carers, students, stay-at-home parents, retirees or others - by providing the knowledge, connections and mentoring they need to start their journey in social entrepreneurship.”
Adam Kosterka, Executive Director of Converge, said: “Sparking Change is about empowering communities to be the drivers of positive change. By democratising innovation, we're ensuring that everyone has a voice in shaping a better future.”
Around 30 places are available for each two-day workshop which will take place at the University’s Science Teaching Hub. The workshops are:
EcoSpark for Change – 4 and 5 December
Dive into the critical issues of clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) and affordable, clean energy (SDG 7). This event will explore innovative solutions and entrepreneurial approaches to ensure sustainable water management and energy access for all.
UrbanSpark for Change – 27 and 29 January
Focusing on creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and promoting responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). Discover how urban innovation and smart design can lead to more resilient, eco-friendly and liveable cities.
LifeSpark for Change – 5 and 6 February
Addressing the pressing challenges of zero hunger (SDG 2) and good health and well-being (SDG 3). Delegates can engage with thought leaders and innovators to create ideas that could transform food systems and healthcare to build a healthier world.
EduSpark for Change– 18 and 19 February
Focusing on quality education (SDG 4) and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). Participants will explore how education and entrepreneurship can drive economic development and provide opportunities for all.
GreenSpark for Change – 25 and 26 February
Dedicated to climate action (SDG 13) and life on land (SDG 15). This session will focus on ways we could tackle climate change and preserve our planet's biodiversity.
For more information or to register your interest in taking part, please visit the Converge website.