Three innovative social enterprises have been shortlisted for Firstport’s Social Innovation Challenge 2026, recognising creative approaches to tackling social, economic and environmental challenges across Scotland.
Herd Dynamics CIC, Rhyze and Code Division have been named as this year’s finalists, with each organisation developing solutions that aim to deliver lasting benefits for communities.
The finalists are:
- Herd Dynamics CIC – Uses equine-assisted learning to develop leadership skills while creating opportunities for young people facing barriers. Its approach combines business leadership training with positive social impact.
- Rhyze – Focuses on improving Scotland’s soil health through the use of nutrient-rich worm castings. Working with community growers, the organisation aims to develop affordable and practical solutions to restore degraded soils.
- Code Division – Supports people facing barriers to digital employment by providing accredited digital skills training in their native languages, helping refugees, diaspora communities and heritage-language speakers access new career opportunities.
The Social Innovation Challenge celebrates organisations using enterprising ideas to address pressing challenges and create positive change.
The winner will be announced on Wednesday 28 October 2026 at the Social Enterprise Scotland Awards and will receive £30,000 to help bring their innovative solution to life. The two runners-up will also receive funding to support the further development of their projects.
For more information about the finalists and the Social Innovation Challenge, visit the Firstport website.
