Consilium secure £450k grant for James Scott and Sons
When James Scott and Sons were introduced to Consilium Chartered Accountants, they faced two challenges: how to fund a move to new premises and how to navigate the complexities of applying for Scottish Enterprise’s Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) grants.
In this case study, we examine how Consilium Chartered Accountants secured £450,000 of RSA grant funding for the Falkirk-based business at the first time of asking.
Cramped premises constrict growth for James Scott and Sons
Picture this: James Scott and Sons, a thriving Scottish company, their premises bustling with the creation of commercial kitchens destined for restaurants, hotels and hospitals. However, the current factory, which has served the business well, is over 100 years old, is outdated and requires modernisation to improve efficiencies.
Enter Consilium Chartered Accountants; experts in securing grant funding for ambitious owner-managed businesses. Following an introduction by Greig Brown of Drummond Laurie, a team led by Corporate Finance partner Linzi Wilson began to put together an application for Regional Selective Assistance for Stuart Scott who along with his brother Martin Scott took over the business from their parents.
Building a case for Regional Selective Assistance funding
Securing RSA funding was critical to the plans of the Falkirk-based business. However, grant applications were uncharted territory, as Stuart explains: “We had never applied for grant funding before and the application process was daunting. It also became clear that we didn’t have the expertise, or the time needed to complete an application. That’s why we turned to our accountant Greig Brown who introduced us to Linzi and the Consilium team.”
Consilium initially approached Scottish Enterprise on James Scott and Sons’ behalf. Utilising their close relationship with the RSA team, the proposal was given a tentative green light to progress to a full grant application. Working collaboratively with Stuart, Consilium put together a detailed RSA application showcasing the impact of a new factory, in terms of increased efficiencies and a happier, more productive workforce. This included all necessary documentation and evidence in support of the application.
Linzi Wilson and her team continued to support the application for funding throughout the evaluation process. As well as ensuring that any further information or clarification could be provided quickly, Consilium negotiated with Scottish Enterprise the level of the grant awarded and the milestones and criteria required before any grant could be drawn down.
James Scott and Sons prepare for new premises and new chapter thanks to Consilium
Maintaining their 100% success rate, Consilium Chartered Accountants secured a Regional Selective Assistance grant of £450,000 for James Scott and Sons.
“We are delighted with the help and support Linzi and the Consilium team provided”, says Stuart. “Not only were we successful in securing the grant funding, Consilium ensured the process was smooth and allowed us to stay focused on building our business.”
With the funding now secured it would be easy to assume that Consilium’s involvement would come to an end. But the philosophy of Consilium is to help people achieve their goals so the business will continue to support James Scott and Sons throughout the transition to new premises and manage reporting required by Scottish Enterprise as the grant is drawn down.
“It has been very satisfying to help Stuart and the James Scott and Sons team secure this funding”, says Linzi Wilson. “It will be exciting to see the new factory take shape and to continue supporting the business to achieve its goals.”
Unlocking growth potential with Scottish Business Grants
Applying for grant funding in Scotland can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for owner-managed businesses. Consilium Chartered Accountants have a proven track record of delivering successful funding applications for clients.
To learn more about how Consilium can support your business to secure grant funding, visit the Scottish Business Grants section of our website.
Ready to start the application process?
We would be delighted to discuss how we can help your business access grant funding. For an informal and confidential virtual or in-person meeting, please contact Linzi Wilson.
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