A group of PSYBT backed businesses attended a celebration reception to mark a flourishing relationship between computer software giants, Microsoft and The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust. Raymond O’Hare, director Microsoft Scotland and Gordon Frazer, managing director of Microsoft UK, extended the invitation as part of a relationship now stretching almost three years. The young entrepreneurs who attended the event had the opportunity to network with each other, plus make potentially valuable contacts with other invited guests, from both Microsoft Scotland and the PSYBT.

Earlier this year, Microsoft hosted a Burns Supper in Edinburgh which raised well in excess of £6,000 for the Trust – which the PSYBT has pledged to match, enabling it to support several new business start-ups. When the Trust moved to new headquarters in Glasgow last year, Microsoft stepped in to assist with kitting out a communications room, allowing, for instance, video conferencing and video training for young entrepreneurs to take place across Scotland.

Eight Microsoft Scotland staff act as volunteer aftercare advisers with the Trust, giving businesses newly started with the help of PSYBT, advice and support during their first two years in operation. Says Mr O’Hare: "Microsoft Scotland are committed to making a significant impact across Scottish Business, government and the community; our partnership with PSYBT in every way compliments these goals. PSYBT helps young people to start up and continue in business. These young people come from all walks of life, many have experienced unemployment or other forms of personal, social or economic disadvantage, but they all have one thing in common: their determination and commitment to succeed. PSYBT offers funding, support and advice needed to help them turn their dreams of self employment into reality."

He adds: "PSYBT, through its excellent work and approach, is firmly contributing to the economic welfare and growth of Scotland, by ensuring that young businesses are given the help they need to start up, grow and develop. Without the PSYBT, many great business ideas would never see the light of day; and many people's lives would be all the poorer for this."

PSYBT depends on some 600 professional volunteers across Scotland to help assess business plans and to mentor this new generation of entrepreneurs in their first years of trading.

The Scottish Executive is very keen to promote and drive a culture of volunteering and as a company, Microsoft Scotland is very proud to be playing a significant part in this, together with PSYBT.”