Community enterprise project E3 have teamed up with EK Collective, East Kilbride’s new coworking space, to offer free hotdesking for young people in conjunction with E3’s Give It A Go grant.

All successful applicants of E3’s Give It A Go grants – a grant for young people aged 18-30 – will be able to take advantage of the offer.

As well as funding, Give It A Go also includes expert one to one mentorship to provide support and advice throughout the market testing.

It is during this period of 2-3 months that successful applicants can access free hotdesking at EK Collective and, in addition, can hold their mentorship meetings in private meeting rooms.

Lynne Kirk, Blantyre E3 Hub Manager, said: “We’re really excited about this collaboration between E3 and EK Collective.

“It’s such a good opportunity for young people to take their work somewhere new if they don’t have the right facilities at home, or if they’re feeling a bit stuck trying to get things started by themselves - this gives them the opportunity to work in a professional environment with other like-minded, collaborative people.

“It’s also a great networking opportunity in the early stages of them trying out their business – without the need to show up wearing a shirt and tie.”

Working closely with South Lanarkshire Council, the E3 project aims to engage, inspire and support South Lanarkshire people and businesses across the region as part of the UK Community Renewal Fund (CRF).

E3 have two hubs, based in Blantyre and Lanark, and offer business support, digital and social media training and a series of programmes and webinars. 

Working closely with EK Collective, E3 aim to drive a boost in coworking and collaboration between South Lanarkshire’s people and businesses.

EK Collective co-founder David McBeth said: "There is a real buzz and energy at EK Collective.

“Flexible hybrid working models are becoming increasingly popular post-pandemic and we believe a town of East Kilbride's size should have access to such facilities in the heart of the town centre.

“We are excited about the coming months and want to support entrepreneurs and businesses at all stages of growth by continuing to develop this new working environment which will foster community and collaboration.”

EK Collective, located in Strathmore and Edinburgh Houses, aims to support new business growth and regeneration by attracting diverse businesses and entrepreneurial individuals into the town centre.

For more information on the facilities at EK Collective, visit their website.

To find out more about Give It A Go grants and other free business support from E3, visit their website.