Purchase Power Programme 2025 - applications now open!
25-27 Feb 2025
We are delighted to launch our impactful business support programme, Purchase Power, in partnership with Social Enterprise Scotland. This is an opportunity for socially motivated enterprises with products, services and experiences to connect with corporates seeking to develop their social and environmental impact.
What’s the Programme About?
Social Investment Scotland and Social Enterprise Scotland have joined forces again to bring you the Purchase Power Programme. Building on the momentum of last year's success, this programme supports you in becoming "purchase ready." From honing your skills and storytelling to refining operational excellence, we’re here to equip you with the tools and insights needed to win business and scale your impact.
Is Your Organisation Ready?
The Purchase Power Programme focuses on three key areas:
- Standout Products – Learn how to make your product or service a top choice for buyers by positioning it strategically and competitively.
- Compelling Storytelling – Discover how to transform your impact into a powerful story that resonates with potential customers and partners.
- Efficient Systems – Make sure your logistics and admin are seamless so you can build confidence with buyers and retain business.
Programme Schedule
The sessions culminate in an exciting buyer matchmaking event, providing a fantastic opportunity to meet potential corporate buyers, have an informal conversation and showcase your offerings!
Session 1 – Procurement and Contracting
Date: Tuesday, 25 February, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
- How to search for and secure contracting opportunities
- Crafting your unique story and value proposition
- Pricing, tendering, and negotiation essentials
Session 2 – Logistics and Operations
Date: Wednesday, 26 February, 9:30 am – 11:00 am
- Streamlining logistics and ensuring buyer satisfaction
- Building reliable operational partnerships
Session 3 – Trends and Product Development
Date: Wednesday, 26 February, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
- Current consumer trends and how to leverage them
- Insight into customer buying behaviours and enhancing your market presence
Session 4 – Buyer Matchmaking Event
Date: Thursday, 27 February, 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
- Connect directly with corporate buyers and starting meaningful conversations
- Gain tips on relationship-building brand alignment, and exchange experiences with peers.
How to apply
Your co-facilitator: Rachael Arnold, SIS Associate
Rachael is a seasoned leader in the creative industries and social enterprise sector with over twenty years of experience. She is the CEO of the Creative Entrepreneurs Club - a member-driven community designed to help creative people grow sustainable businesses in an authentic and empathic way.
Rachael was previously Chair of the Board for Youth Theatre Arts Scotland. She is experienced in supporting impact-led businesses and creative enterprises to flourish and grow.
Rachael's LinkedIn profile can be found here.
Your co-facilitator: Chloe Cannon, SIS Associate
Chloe Cannon is a qualified solicitor who has worked with both SMEs and FTSE-listed companies in commercial and strategy leadership roles across the engineering, energy and defence sectors. She has supported leadership teams with development and execution of corporate and commercial strategy. She has worked all over the world supporting multi-million-pound tenders, commercial contract negotiations and procurement activities. She has also been involved in multiple special corporate projects including Mergers & Acquisitions, partnerships and real estate developments.
Chloe is passionate about using her corporate and commercial skills to support impact-driven organisations to successfully develop their strategies to deliver maximum impact.
Chloe's LinkedIn profile can be found here.
Talking Heads Series
In the lead-up to the programme, join our Talking Heads sessions—a series of inspiring talks from leaders who’ll share their journeys, challenges, and solutions for sustaining commercial contracts and social impact.
We’ll hear from:
- Trish Papworth from Stitch the Gap on 29th January - register here
- Cemal Ezel from Change Please on 5th February - register here
- Celia Hodson from Hey Girls on 12th February - register here
- Ayesha Ibrahim from Honey Corn on 19th February - register here.
Watch our taster session from 19 November
During this taster session, you’ll learn about the topics we’ll cover, and hear directly from the facilitators, SIS Associates Rachael Arnold and Chloe Cannon, along with an inspiring success story from Helene van der Ploeg, CEO of The Grassmarket Community Project. Helene will share how her organisation navigated the journey from concept to commercial success, partnering with corporate clients to deliver impactful products and services.
Watch the taster session below.