Run by The Hunter Foundation (THF), the programme looks for exceptional social enterprises or charities that are making a proven social impact and are scaling up.

The programme is fully funded by The Hunter Foundation; however, full commitment and attendance are expected of those selected.

Those who are chosen to join this year’s cohort will embark on a leadership experience that supports them through peer networks, coaching and tailored development – while also challenging them to innovate, tackle the big issues and show courageous leadership that drives real change.

THF founder, Sir Tom Hunter, said: “We have met some truly incredible individuals through this programme.

“Our original mission was to help open doors for ordinary people doing extraordinary things, however those we have met have been anything but ordinary. We have been incredibly inspired by them, their personal stories, their passion, their impact on their communities – and most importantly their future potential.

“Ultimately that’s what Scotland’s Changemakers is all about. Finding established organisations whose contribution to society can be delivered at scale if they have access to the right support.”

One Changemaker alumni is David Duke who experienced homelessness in his youth, and found hope through football after playing in the Homeless World Cup, later managing Team Scotland at the tournament. His experiences inspired him to set up Street Soccer, which uses football to create lasting positive change for those most at risk and socially disadvantaged across Scotland and London.

David said: “Street Soccer began in 2009 with a £3,335 grant and it has grown beyond my imagination. We’ve now engaged more than 25,000 players and supported them to take positive steps forward both on and off the pitch – providing hope, structure and helping them build relationships. The opportunity to apply for Scotland’s Changemakers, continue on this growth trajectory and positively impact the lives of even more people was too good to miss.”

Changemakers selected to-date have described the programme as eye-opening, admitting it brought hard truths and challenges to the fore – and they welcomed the collaborative environment to work through these and gain clarity on their next steps.

The Hunter Foundation is calling on applications for this year’s programme – so if you are leading a social enterpriser or charity and have ambitious plans for growth, get in touch and you could be one of Scotland’s Changemakers in 2026.

Applicants will be asked to provide company information and financial forecasts, outline key activities and tangible impacts, and detail their growth aspirations for the next five years. This should be supported with a one-minute pitch video.

Applications are now open at www.scotlandschangemakers.com where an application form can be downloaded and to learn more about the Changemakers that have been selected to-date.

Deadline for entries is January 31.