Unlocking Potential. Changing Futures.
Despite immense talent across Scotland, too many young people struggle to turn big ideas into thriving businesses. And when the opportunity isn’t there, we all lose.
Not so fun facts:
- In Scotland, only around 8.8 % of working-age adults engage in early-stage entrepreneurial activity in, compared with about 11 % for the UK as a whole.
- Only 4 in 10 Scots believe they have the skills, knowledge and experience to start a business.
- Meanwhile, UK businesses face a widening skills gap: in Scotland 42 % of employers anticipate difficulties finding staff with the “right skills” in the next 12 months
- On the wealth front, the UK is losing high-net-worth individuals at a rapid rate: in 2025 the UK is projected to have a net outflow of approximately 16,500 millionaires.
- The combined picture: young entrepreneurs don’t always feel ready or supported; talent is under-utilised; meanwhile wealth and investment may be headed elsewhere.
At the Mark Williams Foundation we believe deeply in integrity, resilience, compassion, empowerment and opportunity. Our Entrepreneurial Apprenticeship will support young people leaving school with real entrepreneurial ambitions. We will match budding entrepreneurs with experienced volunteer mentors, provide access to seed-funding, training, and networks so that great ideas don’t stall for lack of support.
Why Now
Because talent without opportunity is wasted potential. Because wealth leaving our country is a wake-up call that we must nurture home-grown growth. Because each young person who launches a business adds jobs, innovation and vibrancy to our communities.
Want to get Involved
We are looking for:
- Mentors ready to empower young entrepreneurs
- Investors and supporters who believe in Scottish talent
- Community partners across Scotland to amplify the impact