Campaign Toolkit

We work with Scotland’s universities to empower staff, students and graduates to transform academic research and innovation into real-world solutions. Through collaboration, we harness expertise, knowledge and connections to support the creation of impactful businesses that contribute to a more sustainable future.

We’ve put together a campaign toolkit to help you spread the word.

Your Converge Campaign Toolkit

We’re looking for 100 aspiring academic innovators with cutting-edge ideas, research or innovation to take part in our transformative programme and drive real-world impact. Open to staff, students and recent graduates with applications accepted until 2 April.

Please use the resources in this toolkit to share the news.

You can access the full suite of materials below:

Guide for applicants
Promotional text
Supporting imagery
Artwork
Logos & brand guidelines
Press releases

Programme dates

Notable dates, including programme and key events in the Converge calendar.

29 January

Converge 2025 programme open for applications.

12 February

Converge application session

This online session will provide potential applicants with advice on the submission process, what our judges look for and hints and tips for writing a strong proposal.

 

12 March

Converge application session

This online session will provide potential applicants with advice on the submission process, what our judges look for and hints and tips for writing a strong proposal.

 

2 April

Closing date for applications.

All applications must be submitted by 12 noon via the Converge website.

13 May

2025 cohort announced

26 May

Regional training (Glasgow)

All participants will attend a day’s training in their region.

27 May

Regional Training (Edinburgh)

All participants will attend a day’s training in their region.

29 May

Regional training (North)

All participants will attend a day’s training in their region.

2-5 June

Entrepreneurial business training

Converge, Create Change & Net Zero Challenges

5 June

Event: Inside Innovation

Pitching Showcase event featuring Converge, Create Change & Net Zero Challenge participants.

9-10 June

Entrepreneurial business training

KickStart Challenge

31 July

Business plan submission deadline

To progress in the programme, participants must submit a business plan (Converge, Net Zero and Create Change) or business case (KickStart) by 12 noon on 31 July.

5 September

Finalists announced

9 – 10 September

Finalist filming and photoshoot

Applicants are encouraged to make sure they keep these dates free!

10 September

Investment and PR training

For finalists in the Create Change, Net Zero and Converge Challenges

2 October

Event: Converge Awards

About us

We work with universities across Scotland to help academic innovators turn their ideas into a thriving, sustainable businesses with:

  • Expert-led training for start-ups and spinouts
  • Peer networking with access to business professionals
  • Opportunity to win cash prizes and business support
  • Test and validate your business proposition

If Converge is new to you, follow the links below for more information, or contact enterprise@convergechallenge.com for a chat to see how we can support you.

What’s new in 2025?

  • New standalone prize to support Blue Economy projects
  • Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) training embedded into the programme (part of Pathways Forward pledge)
  • Targeted campaign and messaging for staff, students and graduates
  • Streamlined application process
What’s involved?
Spring workshops
Founder stories
Special prizes