About PSYBT

The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust leads Scotland in the promotion and support of self-employment and business creation amongst young people, thus contributing to the economic development and community regeneration of the country's regions in line with the policy of the Scottish Government.

Who we are

The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) is Scotland’s leading charity in providing essential finance and professional support to18-25 year olds in Scotland, to run their own business.

What we do


We discuss business ideas with thousands of young people and provide support in the form of free and confidential advice on business start up, assistance in writing a business plan, loans of up to £5,000 and grants of up to £1,000 and book-keeping training. We work very closely with our partners across the Enterprise Network in Scotland.

We actively promote the businesses we help through the use of media and PR, by facilitating networking clubs, social events and offering opportunities to enter competitions and Awards. Our support is completely unique and tailored to the needs of the individual.

In addition to helping young people to start up in business, PSYBT assists entrepreneurs who have previously been supported by the Trust to grow their business. Launched in 2002, The PSYBT Growth Fund offers Development Loans of up to £10,000 and Accelerator Loans of up to £25,000 seeking to expand their businesses.

This year, PSYBT also launched an Innovation Fund. Still in its pilot stage, the fund aims to help 18 – 25 year olds with an innovative concept or product to secure funding to take their idea to the next stage. Loans of up to £30,000 are available.

Who we help

Inspiring young people, many overcoming challenges beyond our comprehension, who without our assistance would never realise their dreams of self employment. Traditional trades such as joiners, plasterers and plumbers to innovative companies developing new products, and revolutionary medical devices. To date we’ve funded artists, dog walkers, beauticians, jewellery designers, events organisers, fishermen, musicians, food manufacturers, surf schools and many, many more!

The impact of our support


Young people gather new skills, both personally and professionally, they grow in confidence and self esteem, and develop into inspirational role models for the entrepreneurs of the future. By taking positive steps to improve their own lives, they in turn, improve the lives of others and the communities in which they live.

Our history

PSYBT was officially launched in 1989 by HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay, with the sole aim of helping young people who lacked funding and support to start up and continue in business.

The business climate has changed considerably since 1989, and a higher level of political and strategic importance has been placed on increasing entrepreneurial activity and encouraging new start businesses for Scotland’s future economic prosperity. Since its inception, PSYBT has helped over 12,000 individuals start over 10,000 businesses. 81% of which continue to trade after their first year in business and 60% are still trading after 3 years.

PSYBT is now one of 20 charities of which The Prince is President; 18 of which were personally founded by the Prince. This group of not-for-profit organisations, The Prince’s Charities is the largest multi-cause charitable enterprise in the United Kingdom, raising over £100 million annually for good causes. Read our latest Annual Report.

Join us

There are many ways to get involved with PSYBT, whether it’s starting your own business, volunteering your time or making a truly worthwhile donation to help young people in Scotland start up and continue in business.