The Scottish government has launched a pilot programme, focusing initially on the south of Scotland, which will fund specialist enterprise coaches to provide tailored advice and guidance to help individuals - particularly women and other under-represented groups - kick-start their business ideas.

Grants of up to £1,000 will be available to give practical help to turning business concepts into a reality.

The pilot will be delivered by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and run alongside a new Scottish government-administered Pathways Fund to support entrepreneurial activity across Scotland.