Leading responsible finance provider, Social Investment Scotland (SIS) is inviting leaders from Scotland’s social enterprise and third sector to join a new coaching initiative designed to develop Scotland’s circular economy.

Funded by Zero Waste Scotland, Circular Economy 360+ is a programme of online and in-person training that will help organisations to embrace planet-friendly and sustainable principles. The programme is free-to-attend and will give leaders an opportunity to develop plans for growth that could see their social impact increase through circular activities and projects.

The initiative is suitable for organisations already involved in circular economy activities, such as reusing materials, reducing waste and recycling, as well as social enterprises and charities with brand new ideas for activities that could be launched in the coming months.

Circular Economy 360+ builds on a video and webinar series, delivered by SIS last year, which involved circular economy experts from across the world. With space for up to 15 participants – plus unlimited registrations for the online sessions – coaching will cover areas such as policy, legislation, and consumer behaviour, as well as one-to-one support to implement next steps.

The course is the first of its kind, supporting purpose-driven circular economy organisations and projects to develop strategies aligned with key environmental policies.

Naomi Johnson, SIS Associate and chair of Circular Communities Scotland, said: “Having started my career in recycling and going on to work across the circular economy, it’s great to be sharing knowledge and expertise with third-sector leaders who can make a big difference in terms of social and environmental impact.

I’m looking forward to working with people who are ambitious about making a positive difference, as well as inspirational industry experts who can share wisdom and guidance about turning circular plans into reality.”

Kieran Daly (pictured above), head of market building at Social Investment Scotland, added: “Sustainability is high on the agenda for consumers and funders alike, and in the coming years it will only become a more important factor for social enterprises and charities.

One company or sector’s waste can be another’s gold, but it can be tricky knowing how to develop a successful strategy. We have specifically designed this support programme to help people take the first steps in starting or scaling up ideas.”