Sir Tom Hunter joined 180 guests at Entrepreneurial Scotland’s largest Patrons’ Lunch to date
Scotland’s business community has raised £120,000 to help students access internships and develop skills and connections for their future careers. The money was raised at Entrepreneurial Scotland’s third annual Patrons’ Lunch, held at Edinburgh’s Signet Library, which welcomed 180 entrepreneurs, founders and supporters. Sir Tom Hunter joined the gathering as keynote speaker.
The lunch was the charity’s largest Patrons’ Lunch to date and raised almost 50% more than the £80,225 generated in 2025. The fundraising total included contributions from a charity auction led by broadcaster Natasha Raskin Sharp, with prizes donated by supporters.
Funds raised will support Entrepreneurial Scotland’s Saltire Scholars Programme, which provides students from Scottish universities with summer internships and professional development. In 2026, the programme placed a record 208 students with 112 organisations across the UK and internationally.
Drawing on his own entrepreneurial journey and Sam Walton’s ten rules for business, Sir Tom Hunter reflected on the importance of recognising talent, listening to customers and building great teams. His address echoed the purpose of the lunch: encouraging Scotland’s business leaders to invest in young people and help them realise their potential.
Sir Tom Hunter said:
“Recognising talent is fundamental to building a successful business. But potential needs an opportunity, and young people need the chance to show what they are capable of.
“Scotland’s business leaders have an important role to play in creating those opportunities. Supporting a young person to gain experience and grow in confidence is an investment in the people who will build and lead businesses in the future.”
Sean McGrath, Chief Executive of Entrepreneurial Scotland, said:
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“The generosity shown at this year’s Patrons’ Lunch has been remarkable. To raise £120,000 with the support of Scotland’s business community is a significant contribution to our ability to create opportunities for young people.
“Through the Saltire Scholars Programme, students can take on responsibility, discover their strengths and build connections that help them move forward with confidence. We’re grateful to everyone who supported the lunch and shares our belief in the potential of Scotland’s next generation.”
