Sparking Change
Are you driven to create lasting, positive change?
Sparking Change is an enterprise programme designed to empower residents of Aberdeen City to make a positive change in society.
Open to members of the local community (not currently in work) and students (including those in part-time employment) with limited to no entrepreneurial experience, this FREE programme offers a blend of bespoke activities to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to take the first step towards social entrepreneurship, with a focus on the UN’s Strategic Development Goals (SDGs). You might even explore a new business venture and could win a cash prize to get it off the ground!
Eligibility: Participants must reside in Aberdeen City, however students throughout Aberdeenshire are also eligible if enrolled on a course and studying at one of the following institutions – University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University and North East Scotland College. Economically-inactive is defined as not currently in work and not actively seeking work in the last four weeks. If you have any questions about your eligibility, please email sparkingchange@abdn.ac.uk.
For more information on the programme and how to sign up, see below:
Workshop Details
Participants can choose to attend one two-day workshop within the series which will take place at the Science Teaching Hub, University of Aberdeen.
You’ll hear from a diverse panel of experts, work together to identify problems in society, brainstorm ideas and present your solutions - all while sharpening your entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills.
"EcoSpark for Change" will dive into the critical issues of clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) and affordable, clean energy (SDG 7).
"UrbanSpark for Change" focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and promoting responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).
"LifeSpark for Change" will address the pressing challenges of zero hunger (SDG 2) and good health and well-being (SDG 3)
"EduSpark for Change" will focus on quality education (SDG 4) and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). Explore how education and entrepreneurship can drive economic development and provide opportunities for all.
"GreenSpark for Change" is dedicated to climate action (SDG 13) and life on land (SDG 15). We will focus on ways we could tackle climate change and preserve our planet's biodiversity.
Full catering will be provided at workshops and you can claim your travel expenses.
- Workshop 1: EcoSpark for Change
4 December (9am - 6pm)/5 December (9am - 4:30pm) - Workshop 2: UrbanSpark for Change
27 January (9am - 6pm)/28 January (9am - 4:30pm) - Workshop 3: LifeSpark for Change
5 February (9am - 6pm)/6 February (9am - 4:30pm) - Workshop 4: EduSpark for Change
18 February (9am - 6pm)/19 February (9am - 4:30pm) - Workshop 5: GreenSpark for Change
25 February (9am - 6pm)/26 February (9am - 4:30pm) - Showcase Event
12 March (10am - 4pm)
Sparked your interest?
Don't miss the chance to learn more about this opportunity - register your interest to stay informed and take the first step towards social entrepreneurship.
Register here.