Techscaler Programme 2022-2024: early evaluation - survey write-ups

3 Engaged member surveys

3.1 Introduction

The methodology for the surveys undertaken with engaged Techscaler members are described in detail in the main evaluation report.

Table 3.1 shows the sample and the number of telephone interviews undertaken with Techscaler members. A total of 140 telephone interviews were undertaken by our study partner Research Resource. These interviews were largely undertaken with founders or co-founders of companies who have accessed Techscaler support (albeit to varying degrees) and who could share views of their experience of engagement from a company perspective.

Table 3.1: Techscaler company interviews — sample and completed telephone interviews

Engagement with Techscaler services	Original sample	Revised sample	Revised sample by engagement level (%)	Number of telephone interviews completed	Completed interviews by engagement level (%)
Low	319	292	50%	26	19%
Some	207	185	32%	62	44%
A lot	108	98	17%	49	35%
High	14	12	2%	3	2%
Total	648	587	100%	140	100%

The telephone survey was supplemented with an abbreviated online survey aimed at an agreed sample. This includes:

• those founders and co-founders who did not take part in the telephone survey.
• some other individual members of Techscaler — that is, member company employees and individuals at the ideation stage.

The online survey resulted in another 34 responses; all bar one is from Techscaler members who have engaged with the programme in some way^[2].

The surveys aimed at engaged Techscaler members resulted in a total of 173 interviews, against a target of 200 interviews (87% achieved).

Only the telephone survey asked detailed impact questions to inform the impact assessment work presented in the main evaluation report, and as mentioned above, the online survey was much shorter — it asked some similar questions to the telephone survey but not all questions. Further, not all Techscaler members answered each question.

3.2 About Techscaler members

This section presents a breakdown of the member base, including company type, size and location. A vast majority (90%) of members who took part in the survey are founders or co-founders of a company, see Table 3.2.

Table 3.2: Which of the following job titles best reflects your role?

Answer Choice	Number	Percentage
Founder or Co-founder	154	90%
C-Level Management (for example, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Marketing Officers, Managing Director, etc)	15	9%
Department Head	1	1%
Team Member	1	1%
Team Leader	0	0%
Other	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

Figures may not total 100% due to rounding.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: photographer.

Techscaler members operate in a wide range of industry sectors. Other service activities is most common (41%), followed by: human health and social work activities (14%); education (12%); and arts, entertainment and recreation (11%).

Table 3.3: What industry sector is/will be your primary focus?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Other service activities	70	41%
Human health and social work activities	24	14%
Education	20	12%
Arts, entertainment and recreation	19	11%
Professional, scientific and technical activities	18	10%
Financial and insurance activities	5	3%
Agriculture, forestry and fishing	3	2%
Information and communication	4	2%
Mining and quarrying	1	1%
Manufacturing	1	1%
Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply	1	1%
Construction	1	1%
Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles	1	1%
Administrative and support service activities	1	1%
Public administration and defence; compulsory social security	1	1%
Transportation and storage	1	1%
Accommodation and food service activities	1	1%
Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities	0	0%
Real estate activities	0	0%
Activities of households as respondents; undifferentiated goods and services producing activities of households for own use	0	0%
Activities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies	0	0%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

The vast majority of members are employed in a micro-business (97%). It should be noted that a large proportion of members are startups with no employees (other than themselves) (44%) — Table 3.4.

Table 3.4: How many employees (Full-time equivalents, FTEs) does your company have?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Self-employed/sole trader (no employees other than yourself)	76	44%
Micro (Less than 10 employees)	91	53%
Small (10 to 49 employees)	5	3%
Medium (50 to 249 employees)	0	0%
Large (250+ employees)	0	0%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

Members are based across Scotland, though one-third of members report that they/their business is based in Edinburgh and Lothians (33%), while a further 23% are based in Glasgow and West — Table 3.5.

Table 3.5: Which region are you/your company based in?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Edinburgh and Lothians	57	33%
Glasgow and West	40	23%
Central Scotland	18	10%
Highlands and Islands	17	10%
Northeast Scotland	15	9%
Dundee and Tayside	13	8%
South of Scotland	9	5%
Other	3	2%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

Table 3.6 provides further details about respondents’ companies. Key points to note include:

• around two-fifths of members (41%) note that the company is female-led.
• circa one-third of companies (34%) are family majority-owned.
• one fifth of members (20%) state that the company is minority ethnic group led.
• more than half of members (59%) report that the company does not have premises and is home-based.

Table 3.6: Company type

Answer Choice	Yes – No.	Yes – %	No– No.	No– %	Don’t know– No.	Don’t know– %
Female led (Base=170)	70	41%	82	48%	18	11%
Family majority-owned (Base=165)	56	34%	93	56%	16	10%
Minority Ethnic Group led (Base=164)	33	20%	111	68%	20	12%
Home-based (that is does not have business premises) (Base=169)	99	59%	52	31%	18	11%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

Note: Female led, and Minority Ethnic Group led, are defined as a company with the majority of the combined total number of owners, partners and directors being female and from an ethnic minority background, respectively.

For the telephone survey CodeBase provided details of key company contacts’ stage of development (from ideation to scaleup) at the time of joining Techscaler. The main message from Table 3.7 is that a majority (68%) were at a very early stage when they joined Techscaler (that is, either ideation or early stage).

Both surveys (online and telephone) asked members to indicate where they see themselves now. Table 3.8 shows a greater proportion of members are now in the growth and scaling stage (53%). This suggests that Techscaler has supported companies in the early stages to progress to the growth or scaling stage.

Table 3.7: Based on your application form Techscaler categorised you as at the...

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Ideation stage — an individual with an idea but no clear focus or commitment to building a company	9	6%
Early stage — an individual focused on a specific market or problem space. They may/may not have a registered business, prototype, or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) but they are dedicating time to advancing their idea	87	62%
Growth — a company with a live product looking to acquire customers. They may/may not have existing customers at this stage	39	28%
Scaleup/scaling — a company with a live product, revenue, and a team which includes department heads/specialists (e.g. product team, engineering team, growth team)	5	4%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=140.

Table 3.8: Which of the following stages do YOU think best describes your/the company’s situation now?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Ideation stage	5	3%
Early stage	64	37%
Growth	74	43%
Scaleup/scaling	18	10%
Decided not to start up the company	4	2%
Have since stopped trading	2	1%
Decided to start/are considering starting up a different business	4	2%
Other	2	1%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: photographer.

A majority of members (59%) did not have a product live in the market when they joined Techscaler — Table 3.9. Where members did have a live product in the market (41%), almost all said that this is still the case, see Table 3.10.

Table 3.9: At the time of joining Techscaler did you have a product live in the market?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes	57	41%
No	83	59%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=140.

Table 3.10: Is this still the case now?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes	53	93%
No	4	7%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=57.

3.3 Engagement with Techscaler

For the telephone survey, CodeBase provided details of their internal coding of key company contacts’ level of engagement with Techscaler (from low or least engaged to high or most engaged). For the online survey members were asked to select the most appropriate rating.

Engagement is fairly mixed among members, with just over half being less engaged (54%) and the remaining 46% more engaged — Table 3.11.

Table 3.11: Level of engagement with Techscaler (from 1 (low) to 4 (high))

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
1 — Low	30	17%
2 — Some	64	37%
3 — A lot	68	40%
4 — High	10	6%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

A broadly even mix of members joined Techscaler in either 2023 or 2024, see Table 3.12.

Table 3.12: When did you/your company join Techscaler?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
2023	95	55%
2024	78	45%

Source: Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

3.4 Prior to joining Techscaler

3.4.1 How members heard about Techscaler

Members mostly became aware of Techscaler through an existing relationship with CodeBase (22%) or via word of mouth from family/friends (19%) — Table 3.13.

Table 3.13: How did you first find out about Techscaler?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Had an existing relationship with CodeBase	38	22%
Word of mouth from family or friend	33	19%
Signposted by another agency or organisation (for example, Enterprise Agency, Business Gateway, local authority)	28	16%
Online search/approached Techscaler directly to find out more	24	14%
From attendance at an event or conference	18	10%
Directly from CodeBase	7	4%
Saw information on the Scottish Government website or social media	7	4%
Saw information on the Techscaler website or social media	3	2%
Saw an advertisement	3	2%
Don’t know/can’t remember	5	3%
Other	17	10%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: LinkedIn, through my employer; support teams; professional networks; and community events.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

3.4.2 Main motivating factors for joining Techscaler

The main motivating factors for joining Techscaler included to:

• meet and connect with like-minded founders and peers (part of the ‘community’) (39%).
• access expert mentorship advice, guidance, and support (39%).
• attend events to meet fellow founders, expand our network, and hear from industry experts (37%).
• access resources and tools to help startup a business (36%) — Table 3.14.

Table 3.14: What were your main motivations for applying to Techscaler for support?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
To meet and connect with like-minded founders and peers (part of the ‘community’)	68	39%
To access expert mentorship advice, guidance, and support	67	39%
To attend events to meet fellow founders, expand our network, and hear from industry experts	65	37%
To access resources and tools to help startup a business	62	36%
Wanted to access skills development support for myself/founder/co-founder	58	33%
To help access finance (for example, grants, self-funding/bootstrapping, fundraising — in exchange for equity or convertible debt, bank loans, crowdfunding, Series A, B, and C funding rounds)	50	29%
To test the viability of my business idea	36	21%
To increase our understanding of, and ability to navigate the tech support ecosystem in Scotland	26	15%
To increase our investor connectivity	19	11%
Wanted to access skills development support for our wider team	14	8%
To enhance our financial readiness	14	8%
To start/increase our internationalisation	11	6%
To increase our understanding of, and ability to navigate the tech support ecosystem outside Scotland	8	5%
Help to grow the business	7	4%
To access an affordable place to work or meet from	6	3%
Other	15	9%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: looking for staff; to develop knowledge base; traction to investment; to understand the steps to launch my business; strategic and technical support.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

3.4.3 Barriers faced at that time

Almost two-thirds of members (61%) cited access to finance as a barrier they faced to startup, growth or scaling at the time of joining Techscaler — Table 3.15.

Table 3.15: What were the main barriers you/your company faced to startup, growth or scaleup at that time of joining Techscaler?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Access to finance	106	61%
Limited understanding of the tech support ecosystem	87	50%
Lacked wider ecosystem connections (for example, academics, corporate, industry, technical experts)	84	48%
Lacked connections with fellow founders and startup peers	83	48%
Didn’t know which organisation(s) to approach for support	76	44%
Not financial/investor ready	65	37%
Lacked the core skills to support the growth and scaleup of the business	61	35%
Time taken to generate a return	44	25%
Lacked the core practical skills to startup a business	38	22%
Lacked access to affordable physical space/hubs to work or meet from (for example, flexible hotdesking, coworking, office, and meeting room space)	33	19%
Other	21	12%
Not applicable	2	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: struggling to find product market fit; time for events; knowledge building for cash revenue; understanding product demand; validation; and attracting new leads.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

This was followed by:

• limited understanding of the tech support ecosystem (50%).
• a lack of wider ecosystem connections (48%).
• a lack of connections with founders and startup peers (48%).

3.4.4 Techscaler marketing and promotion

Overall, a majority of members were satisfied or very satisfied across different aspects of marketing and promotion of Techscaler. For example, this included:

• clarity on eligibility (73% very satisfied or satisfied)
• clarity on type of support Techscaler offers (72%)
• ease of finding out about the support (71%)
• clarity on how Techscaler could help you/your company (71%)

The main areas of dissatisfaction were with the ‘Clarity of the type of support Techscaler offers’ and ‘How Techscaler could help them/their company’ (both 11%) — although as noted, a majority of members were satisfied with these aspects too— Table 3.16.

Qualitative feedback regarding clarity of type of support is explored in more detail below.

Table 3.16: Thinking back, how would you rate your satisfaction with the following aspects of Techscaler’s marketing and promotion on a scale of 1 (very dissatisfied) to 5 (very satisfied)

Answer choice	Very satisfied – No.	Very satisfied – %	Satisfied – No.	Satisfied – %	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied– No.	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied– %
Clarity on whether you/your company were eligible for Techscaler support (Base=173)	72	42%	54	31%	28	16%
Ease of finding out about Techscaler (Base=173)	71	41%	52	30%	28	16%
Clarity on the type of support Techscaler offers (Base=173)	66	38%	59	34%	28	16%
Clarity on how Techscaler could help you/your company (Base=172)	56	33%	65	38%	30	17%

Answer choice	Dissatisfied – No.	Dissatisfied – %	Very dissatisfied– No.	Very dissatisfied– %	Don’t know– No.	Don’t know– %
Clarity on whether you/your company were eligible for Techscaler support (Base=173)	8	5%	7	4%	3	2%
Ease of finding out about Techscaler (Base=173)	9	5%	3	2%	9	5%
Clarity on the type of support Techscaler offers (Base=173)	14	8%	5	3%	0	0%
Clarity on how Techscaler could help you/your company (Base=172)	16	9%	3	2%	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

Almost two-thirds of members (63%) stated that aspects of Techscaler’s marketing and promotion could be improved, Table 3.17.

Table 3.17: Could anything be improved?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes	88	63%
No	52	37%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=140.

At the time of joining Techscaler, many members considered that the information on the Techscaler Programme was too ‘generic’ and ‘wide-ranging’. This resulted in them being unclear on whether the programme was for them, or how it could help. There was also some feedback which perceives marketing and promotional activity to be central belt focussed.

Many also said that, at the time of joining Techscaler, they were unclear about the difference between Techscaler (the programme) and CodeBase (the delivery partner) or about how Techscaler segmented people/companies by stage. They suggested that making this clearer could help to ensure a shared understanding among potential members about what they can expect from Techscaler support.

Other points raised by members included that, at the time of joining Techscaler:

• the programme was at early stages of making connections and developing relationships with other players in the ecosystem.
• greater use of social media and other channels (for example, case studies) for marketing and promotion could have helped their understanding of Techscaler.
• they felt that Techscaler could have had a more visible presence at events not directly organised by them as a way to increase awareness of the programme.

A few members noted that promotion of Techscaler is better now compared to when they first joined.

3.5 Techscaler application process and initial engagement

Overall, the vast majority of Techscaler members expressed satisfaction with the application process and their initial engagement with CodeBase, as set out in Table 3.18 below, including:

• the online application process (83% were satisfied or very satisfied).
• the responsiveness of CodeBase once you applied (83%).
• the initial contact and communication with CodeBase (81%).
• the time taken for support to start (79%).
• the ongoing communication from CodeBase (77%).

Only 13% of Techscaler members were dissatisfied with ongoing communication from CodeBase.

Table 3.18: How would you rate your satisfaction or otherwise with the following statements on the Techscaler application process and your initial engagement with CodeBase on a scale of 1 (very dissatisfied) to 5 (very satisfied)?

Aspect of process/engagment	Very satisfied – No.	Very satisfied – %	Satisfied – No.	Satisfied – %	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied– No.	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied– %
Responsiveness of CodeBase once you applied	108	62%	36	21%	18	10%
Initial contact and communication with CodeBase	105	61%	35	20%	18	10%
Time taken for support to start	94	54%	44	25%	18	10%
Ongoing communication from CodeBase	91	53%	41	24%	p16	9%
Online application process	86	50%	57	33%	21	12%

Aspect of process/engagment	Dissatisfied – No.	Dissatisfied – %	Very dissatisfied– No.	Very dissatisfied– %	Don’t know– No.	Don’t know– %
Responsiveness of CodeBase once you applied	5	3%	5	3%	0	0%
Initial contact and communication with CodeBase	6	3%	6	3%	2	1%
Time taken for support to start	8	5%	7	4%	1	1%
Ongoing communication from CodeBase	17	10%	6	3%	1	1%
Online application process	2	1%	3	2%	3	2%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

3.5.1 What worked well?

Some members said that the application process was ‘straightforward’ and ‘easy to understand’. Information provided was considered comprehensive and gave companies an insight into Techscaler’s offering and clarified their expectations from engagement. These members also note that the application process was quick and allowed them to begin the onboarding process swiftly.

Some members also felt that the onboarding process worked well, due to both the efficiency of the process and the support provided by CodeBase. Meetings or discussions with CodeBase at the outset were considered helpful, relevant and targeted and staff were also considered ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘responsive’. These discussions allowed the team to get a good understanding of the business idea or company, the stage they were at, goals, needs, etc., and were able to then connect members with the appropriate support and networking opportunities.

3.5.2 What worked less well?

Around half of members who answered this question said that there was nothing that worked less well at the time of joining Techscaler, and a few others said that they could not recall any issues.

Where feedback is provided by members on aspects of their initial engagement with Techscaler that worked less well, the main points raised related to:

• a lack of upfront information upfront regarding the process, the support available, and what members could expect.
• issues with completing the online application form — for example, layout, a lack of guidance, and a preference for additional in-person contact/support.
• the time taken for applications to be processed and for contact to be made.
• issues in terms of accessing the Techscaler website — for example, the website being down or slow to access at times.

3.5.3 Relationship management

Over two-thirds of members (69%) rated Techscaler’s relationship management as very good or good, Table 3.19. However, a sizable proportion considered it average or worse.

Some members perceived that the Techscaler relationship management approach was overly reliant on email communications — terms such as ‘faceless’, ‘hands-off’, and ‘impersonal’ were used in responses. There was also a perception among some members that Techscaler is run by people who have not previously worked in startups or scaleups and that the support was not adequately tailored to their specific needs as a result.

Suggested areas for improvement in Techscaler relationship management included:

• more direct and personal contact with individual members — regular check-ins and follow-ups, and a single point of contact were suggested to help build trusted and ongoing relationships.
• greater Techscaler visibility at events.

Table 3.19: How would you rate Techscaler’s relationship management on a scale of 1 (very poor) to 5 (very good)?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Very good	83	49%
Good	35	20%
Average	25	15%
Poor	16	9%
Very poor	8	5%
Don’t know	4	2%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=171.

3.6 Techscaler support accessed and satisfaction

3.6.1 Support accessed

Members reported that they have accessed a range of Techscaler support — the main types of support received have been mentorship (78%) and participation in education courses (Startup Basics and First Steps, both 50%). Few (2%) indicated that they are tenants of a Techscaler physical hub — Table 3.20.

Table 3.20: Which of the following support have you accessed from Techscaler?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Mentorship	135	78%
Startup Basics	86	50%
First Steps	86	50%
Next Steps	44	25%
Attended community events, meetups, and networking opportunities	24	14%
International programmes (for example, San Francisco/Silicon Valley, Singapore)	20	12%
Reforge	11	6%
Use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from (for example, flexible hotdesking or coworking space, access to meeting space)	10	6%
Funding readiness	4	2%
Tenant of a Techscaler hub	3	2%
Other	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

Note: ‘Other’ response included: Discovery.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

As noted in Table 3.20 above, the vast majority of members do not use the regional hubs as a permanent or flexible workspace (only 8%).

The main reasons for not using the regional hubs include:

• a preference for home working, or that they already have their own office space which meets their needs (for example, equipment, quiet).
• others said that they have another job while they develop their idea and do not need access to a workspace.
• barriers to access factors, such as cost (considered prohibitive) and location (do not live near to a hub, particularly those in rural locations).

A positive finding is that around two-thirds of members (68%) said that they would consider using a regional hub in the future, mostly for flexible hotdesking or coworking (47%) or as a meeting space (37%), Table 3.21. Some members mentioned that that they have had a positive experience of hotdesking elsewhere in the past, that they value the networking opportunities this can provide, that they may need to access physical space as the company begins to employ people or grow, or that it could help to create professional premises for them.

Members who indicated that they would definitely not, or would be unlikely to, access a regional hub in the future raised similar points to those reported earlier (for example, no current requirement).

Table 3.21: Would you consider using a regional hub as a permanent or flexible workspace in the future?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes, for flexible hotdesking or coworking space	78	47%
Yes, for accessing meeting space	61	37%
Yes, as a tenant	36	22%
No, unlikely	33	20%
No, definitely not	20	12%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=166.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

3.6.2 Satisfaction with Techscaler support

For the majority of Techscaler members, the support is complete — Table 3.22. In part this reflects the time limited nature of education courses, etc. Other support, such as mentoring and use of regional hubs, is ongoing.

Table 3.22: Is this support complete?

Answer choice	Yes – No.	Yes - %	No – No.	No - %
First Steps (Base=86)	74	86%	12	14%
Startup Basics (Base=86)	62	72%	24	28%
Mentorship (Base=134)	61	46%	73	54%
Next Steps (Base=44)	34	77%	10	23%
International programmes (Base=20)	18	90%	2	10%
Reforge (Base=11)	8	73%	3	27%
Funding readiness (Base=3)	3	100%	0	0%
Regional hubs (Base=3)	1	33%	2	67%
Use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from (Base=8)	2	25%	6	75%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

Members reported high levels of satisfaction with most types of support that they/their company accessed, particularly: international programmes (100% very satisfied or satisfied); Reforge (100%); attending community events and meetups (88%); and mentorship (86%) — Table 3.23 below. The exception is the ‘use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from’ with lower levels of satisfaction (50% very satisfied or satisfied), albeit absolute numbers are small.

Table 3.23: How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with each type of support you/your company has accessed?

Types of Support	Very satisfied – No.	Very satisfied – %	Satisfied – No.	Satisfied – %	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied – No.	Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied – %
Mentorship (Base=120)	76	63%	28	23%	1	1%
Startup Basics (Base=73)	37	51%	16	22%	3	4%
First Steps (Base=71)	37	52%	20	28%	2	3%
Next Steps (Base=36)	16	44%	13	36%	0	0%
International programmes (Base=17)	13	76%	4	24%	0	0%
Attended community events and meetups (Base=24)	10	42%	11	46%	1	4%
Reforge (Base=10)	6	60%	4	40%	0	0%
Use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from (Base=10)	4	40%	1	10%	4	40%
Funding readiness (Base=4)	1	25%	3	75%	0	0%
Tenant of a Techscaler hub (Base=3)	1	33%	2	67%	0	0%
Other (Base=2)	2	100%	0	0%	0	0%

Types of Support	Dissatisfied – No.	Dissatisfied – %	Very dissatisfied – No.	Very dissatisfied – %	Don’t know – No.	Don’t know – %
Mentorship (Base=120)	7	6%	5	4%	3	3%
Startup Basics (Base=73)	6	8%	3	4%	8	11%
First Steps (Base=71)	5	7%	4	6%	3	4%
Next Steps (Base=36)	3	8%	1	3%	3	8%
International programmes (Base=17)	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%
Attended community events and meetups (Base=24)	1	4%	0	0%	1	4%
Reforge (Base=10)	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%
Use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from (Base=10)	0	0%	0	0%	1	10%
Funding readiness (Base=4)	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%
Tenant of a Techscaler hub (Base=3)	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%
Other (Base=2)	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

3.6.2.1 What worked well?

Members frequently highlighted that the Techscaler support provided them/their company with tailored expertise, structured delivery and content, and increased opportunities to network and connect with the wider community and ecosystem, other founders and mentors.

Mentorship support was considered by members to add real value for founders — they emphasised the importance and quality of the mentor matching, with Techscaler matching them to skilled mentors that were relevant to their idea and sector. Crucially, mentors were often able to offer strategic insight and planning to provide ongoing, personalised support and actionable advice. This allowed founders to have a ‘sounding board for their ideas’ and ‘fill in gaps in their knowledge’. This is seen as instrumental in helping participants to increase their confidence and grow their project/business. Many said that they hope to continue accessing mentorship support going forward.

Those who accessed First Steps and Next Steps appreciated the flexible and hybrid delivery of these sessions. Members highlighted the effectiveness of the ‘well-designed and delivered’ structured content as well as the opportunities to connect and network with other founders at the early stage of their business. The content and advice helped participants to build confidence and fill knowledge gaps, particularly around entrepreneurial language (for example, ‘speaking the language’ of business). Networking, particularly in-person, was also said to have created a sense of community and shared learning in a supportive environment, which was supported by ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘approachable’ speakers.

Members note that the International Programmes provided a ‘unique opportunity’ to think about their business in an international setting. These members appreciated the balance of structured content and freedom to plan their day and organise meetings giving them responsibility to maximise their opportunity, which was said to increase both their personal and technical confidence and experience.

Some members emphasised the quality of support offered through Reforge. In particular, these members highlighted that Reforge is taught by people who have first-hand experience at scaling a business and therefore the support was highly relevant.

A small number of those who accessed Startup Basics viewed it as a simple, accessible online resource that supports self-paced learning which participants can return to. It was seen as a useful entry point, particularly for those who then progressed to First Steps.

3.6.2.2 What worked less well?

There is a call from members for more targeted and tailored support that is better aligned to their business stage and sector.

For example, the introductory support offered through First Steps and Startup Basics was considered ‘too basic’ and ‘generic’ for the needs and stage of some businesses who may be more advanced with their business idea — this meant that the content was sometimes less relevant. For Startup Basics, it is said that the content could be more tailored to tech startups in Scotland and the online delivery felt ‘less personal’ and ‘less interactive’.

A few members note that the timing of sessions, particularly for First Steps and Next Steps, was a barrier to access (for example, those with full-time jobs or caring responsibilities). Greater flexibility in delivery (such as evening sessions) could allow a greater diversity of people to access this support.

While positive overall, some members have had a less positive experience with the Mentorship support. Points raised include:

• a lack of clarity on how to access and book mentoring sessions.
• not being clear on how many mentoring sessions they could access.
• delays in the matching process.
• limited mentor availability where they did not dedicate enough time or resources to support founders (for example, ‘lots of last-minute cancellations’).
• their mentor was not relevant enough for their business idea.
• poor communication and a lack of follow-up or continuity once the mentor sessions were complete (this is also an issue identified with the Next Steps where there is no follow-up from CodeBase once complete).
• reliance on members to follow up rather than CodeBase being more proactive.

For the International programmes, members noted that they were confirmed on the trip at ‘short notice’ which felt ‘rushed’ as a result — and they also felt not as prepared as they could have been.

Other points raised included that members had expected Techscaler to facilitate greater access and connections to funding and investor networks — but that this has not happened to the extent they envisaged at the outset. There is feedback that this type of support is needed to help grow their business.

Feedback from Techscaler members is fairly mixed in relation to whether they consider the package of support accessed has been of most value or whether one form of support has been of most value to them personally or to their business — Table 3.24.

Table 3.24: Did one form/type of Techscaler support benefit you/your company the most or do you feel that the ‘package’ of support accessed has been of most value?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
One type of support	96	57%
Package of support	72	43%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=168.

Where one form of support is considered to have been of most value, mentorship in particular is mentioned — Table 3.25. This likely reflected the high proportion of members who have accessed this form of support. The feedback emphasised the one-to-one and personalised nature of mentoring support, including the ability to ask mentors questions and for advice, and that mentors were a useful and knowledgeable sounding board.

The most valuable aspects of the support identified by members are broken down by support type (where there is adequate qualitative feedback):

• First Steps (most valuable support for 16% of members) was considered to be ‘engaging’ and ‘interactive’, with some members highlighting the value of watch parties and in-person elements. These engaging elements offered opportunities to network and created a sense of community and peer support among fellow founders. Other highly rated aspects included the knowledge and advice gained by participants to apply to their business idea as well as the time commitment which helped to have a greater impact.
• the connections made through the international programmes (10%) were most valuable to some members as it has already benefitted their business and has informed future business plans (for example, ‘now looking to get certification from Singapore to integrate’).
• the ability to ask questions and advice through Startup Basics (7%) was beneficial to these members as well as making connections (for example, one respondent ‘found [their] co-founder’ at this stage).
• Next Steps (4%) was said to provide a good understanding and knowledge for growing the business.

Where members felt that the package of support was most valuable (43% of members), the main reasons included that the support is considered complementary and holistic, that it included a mix of one-to-many and one-to-one support (and caters for different learning styles), and that it is tailored (to a certain extent) to a business’s stage of development.

Table 3.25: Type of support of most value

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Mentorship	56	58%
First Steps	15	16%
International programmes (for example, San Francisco/Silicon Valley, Singapore)	10	10%
Startup Basics	7	7%
Next Steps	4	4%
Reforge	2	2%
Attended community events, meetups, and networking opportunities	1	1%
Funding readiness	0	0%
Tenant of a Techscaler hub	0	0%
Use of a Techscaler hub to work and meet from (for example, flexible hotdesking or coworking space, access to meeting space)	0	0%
Other	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=96.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: discovery.

3.6.3 Perceptions of Techscaler support

The vast majority (80%) of members reported that Techscaler had met their expectations (‘very much so’ or ‘to some extent’) as well as helped them/their company to address barriers (73%) and met their/their company’s needs (70%), Table 3.26. However, a sizeable proportion of Techscaler members indicated ‘in a limited way’ or ‘not at all’ to these questions.

Table 3.26: To what extent has Techscaler...?

Perceptions of support	Very much so – No.	Very much so – %	To some extent – No.	To some extent – %	In a limited way – No.	In a limited way – %
Met your expectations from accessing the support (Base=171)	70	41%	67	39%	21	12%
Met your/your company’s needs (Base=170)	59	35%	60	35%	34	20%
Helped you/your company to address the barriers you faced to startup, growth or scaleup (Base=172)	55	32%	70	41%	29	17%

Perceptions of support	Not at all – No.	Not at all – %	Don’t know – No.	Don’t know – %
Met your expectations from accessing the support (Base=171)	12	7%	1	1%
Met your/your company’s needs (Base=170)	16	9%	1	1%
Helped you/your company to address the barriers you faced to startup, growth or scaleup (Base=172)	17	10%	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

Where positive feedback is provided by Techscaler members, this centred on:

• the extent to which the support has further developed their knowledge, confidence as well as skills for application in real-world situations.
• the quality of the support provided by Techscaler — in terms of content, resources, materials, as well as the added value of mentoring advice, guidance, and support in particular to help address specific issues or challenges.

Another point raised is that Techscaler had helped members to navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem, especially for startups with little or no prior knowledge — prior to engaging with Techscaler, the ecosystem was considered to be ‘intimidating’ and a barrier for some members.

Where support has not met needs or expectations, the main points raised include that some members:

• continue to be unclear on Techscaler processes and support.
• would like more in-person support and follow-up.
• had expected more signposting to, and connections made with, funders and investors (for example, one-to-one meetings).
• felt that more time is needed with mentor to have greater impact.
• are more likely to use regional hubs become if cost and accessibility barriers are removed.
• state that Techscaler could be more organised.

3.7 Benefits and impacts

The benefits and impacts questions were split in the survey into two categories — one for those at the ideation or early stage at the time of joining Techscaler, and the other for those at the growth or scaling stage.

3.7.1 Ideation and early stage

Overall, a vast majority (96%) of members at the ideation or early stage have achieved, or expect to achieve, personal benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support — Table 3.27. The main benefits achieved to date are reported as:

• improved knowledge of startup fundamentals (how to go about starting a business) (77%).
• new relationships, contacts, and networks developed (74%).
• increased confidence (70%).

Similarly, more than half of members (55%) at the ideation and early stage expect to achieve at least one personal benefit in the future as a direct result of the Techscaler support, most notably:

• new relationships, contacts, and networks developed (63%).
• skills development (58%).
• improved knowledge of startup fundamentals (how to go about starting a business) (52%).

Table 3.27: Have you achieved to date any of the following personal benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support accessed or received?

Personal benefit	Achieved to date – No.	Achieved to date - %	Expect to achieve in the future – No.	Expect to achieve in the future - %
Improved knowledge of startup fundamentals (how to go about starting a business)	84	77%	57	52%
New relationships, contacts, and networks developed	81	74%	69	63%
Increased confidence	76	70%	55	50%
Increased motivation	73	67%	52	48%
Improved mindset	69	63%	53	49%
Skills development	66	61%	63	58%
Part of the Techscaler ‘community’	66	61%	56	51%
Higher quality of pitches delivered	47	43%	52	48%
Other	3	3%	5	5%
It is too early to tell	2	2%	5	5%
No personal benefits	4	4%	14	13%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=109.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: connection to industry and information on investors in the Techscaler network.

Overall, a vast majority of members (95%) at the ideation and early stage have achieved, or expect to achieve, business benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support — Table 3.28. The main business benefits achieved to date are reported as:

• it helped me to startup a business (43%).
• improved understanding of ecosystem support (41%).
• improved access to ecosystem support (39%).

Similarly, just less than half of members (44%) at the ideation and early stage expect to achieve at least one business benefit in the future, most notably: enhanced investor readiness (39%); and improved understanding of ecosystem support (35%).

Table 3.28: Have you achieved to date any of the following business benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support accessed or received?

Business benefit	Achieved to date – No.	Achieved to date - %	Expect to achieve in the future – No.	Expect to achieve in the future - %
It helped me to startup a business	42	43%	21	22%
Improved understanding of ecosystem support	40	41%	34	35%
Improved access to ecosystem support	38	39%	29	30%
Signposted/referred to other complementary partner activity	34	35%	29	30%
Access to workspace and meeting space with like-minded people and founders	28	29%	27	28%
Greater confidence in company resilience/sustainability	27	28%	31	32%
Enhanced investor readiness	21	22%	38	39%
New or improved products or services	19	20%	30	31%
Funding raised/secured	9	9%	30	31%
Increased number of funding/investment deals completed	5	5%	28	29%
Other	2	2%	0	0%
It is too early to tell	3	3%	2	2%
No business benefits	3	3%	2	2%
Not applicable (for example, not registered a company)	2	2%	1	1%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=97.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: helped me to find a voice.

The majority of members had started their business prior to joining Techscaler and are still trading (65%). A positive finding is that almost one-fifth started their business after joining Techscaler and accessing support (18%) — Table 3.29.

Table 3.29: Which of the following statements best reflects your current situation?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
I started my business prior to joining Techscaler and it is still trading	62	65%
I started my business after joining Techscaler, and it is still trading	17	18%
I started a business, but it is no longer trading	4	4%
I am in the process of starting up/thinking about starting up a business	9	9%
I decided not to start up a business	4	4%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=96.

3.7.1.1 Members in the process of starting up a business

Many of those who are in the process or thinking of starting up a business (six members) are likely to start their business in 2025 — Table 3.30.

Table 3.30: When do you think you will start a business?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
2025	6	67%
2026	2	22%
2027	1	11%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=9.

3.7.1.2 Members whose business is no longer trading

Those who responded that their business was no longer trading said that this was due to:

• a lack of customer demand.
• their idea was too early stage.
• they were given another opportunity for a different startup.

While absolute numbers are small, there is some feedback that greater networking with peers could have been beneficial. Some, but not all, are either considering working for another startup or starting a business.

Table 3.31: No longer trading — additional questions

Additional question	Yes – No.	Yes – %	No – No.	No - %	Don’t know – No.	Don’t know - %
Would any other additional support have helped?	2	50%	1	25%	1	25%
Are you considering starting a different business?	1	25%	2	50%	1	25%
Are you considering working for another startup?	4	100%	0	0%	0	0%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=4.

3.7.1.3 Members who decided not to start up a business

Those who subsequently decided not to start up a business said that this was due to factors including:

• they decided to take up another employment opportunity.
• they did not want to work as a sole trader.
• they lacked access to early-stage capital.

While absolute numbers are small, some members noted that additional support with next steps, funding and early-stage capital could have been beneficial.

Some, but not all, are considering starting a different business, whilst some are considering working for another startup — Table 3.32.

Table 3.32: Decided not to start up a business — additional questions

Additional question	Yes – No.	Yes – %	No – No.	No - %	Don’t know – No.	Don’t know - %
Would any other additional support have helped?	3	75%	1	25%	0	0%
Are you considering starting a different business?	1	25%	2	50%	1	25%
Are you considering working for another startup?	2	50%	2	50%	0	0%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=4.

3.7.2 Additionality of the support for ideation and early stage members

Overall, the number of companies in the early and ideation stage reporting that the benefits and impacts achieved/forecast were either fully or mostly attributable to Techscaler was relatively low (13%), see Table 3.33.

Table 3.33: What proportion of the reported impacts do you think can be attributed to the Techscaler support?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
None	21	20%
A small amount of the impacts (up to 10%)	18	17%
Some of the impacts (up to 25%)	18	17%
Up to half of the impacts (up to 50%)	18	17%
Most of the impacts (up to 75%)	7	7%
Almost all of the impacts (up to 90%)	4	4%
All of the impacts (100%)	2	2%
Don’t know/ Not sure	19	18%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=107.

Most members (75%) in the ideation and early stage said that they would have still started their business in the absence of Techscaler support, though this would have taken longer (39%) or been on a smaller scale (24%) — Table 3.34. For example:

• timing additionality ranged from six to 24 months, with a median average of 12 months.
• scale additionality ranged from 90% to 500% with a median average of 100%.

Table 3.34: What do you think would have happened if you had not received Techscaler support?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
I would have started in business anyway, but it would have taken longer without this support	10	29%
I would have started in business anyway, but it would have been on a smaller scale without this support	10	29%
I would have started up a business anyway	6	17%
I would not have started in business without this support	5	14%
Don’t know/ Not sure	4	11%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=35.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

3.7.3 Growing and scaling companies

This section presents the benefits and impacts for growing and scaling companies. The feedback received is broadly similar to that presented above for ideation and early-stage Techscaler members.

Overall, a vast majority of members (95%) who are in the growth or scaling stage have achieved, or expect to achieve, personal benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support — Table 3.35.

The most commonly reported benefits achieved to date include:

• new relationships, contacts, and networks developed (82%).
• increased confidence (67%).
• skills development (64%).

Similarly, a majority of members (87%) expect to achieve personal benefits in the future, most notably:

• new relationships, contacts, and networks developed (56%)
• skills development (51%)

Table 3.35: Have you achieved to date any of the following personal benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support accessed or received?

Personal benefit	Achieved to date – No.	Achieved to date – %	Expect to achieve in the future – No.	Expect to achieve in the future – %
New relationships, contacts, and networks developed	45	82%	31	56%
Increased confidence	37	67%	25	45%
Skills development	35	64%	28	51%
Improved mindset	34	62%	23	42%
Increased motivation	30	55%	21	38%
Part of the Techscaler ‘community’	30	55%	20	36%
Higher quality of pitches delivered	24	44%	22	40%
It is too early to tell	0	0%	1	2%
Other	3	5%	1	2%
No personal benefits	4	7%	4	7%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=55.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: more knowledge.

Overall, a vast majority (95%) of growth or scaling stage Techscaler members have achieved, or expect to achieve, business benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support — Table 3.36. The most common business benefits achieved to date are:

• signposted/referred to other complementary partner activity (other ecosystem support) (44%).
• helped me to grow and/or scale the business (40%).
• improved understanding of ecosystem support (40%).

Similarly, a majority of members (78%) at the growth or scaling stage expect to achieve business benefits in the future as a direct result of the Techscaler support, most notably:

• helped me to grow and/or scale the business (44%).
• signposted/referred to other complementary partner activity (other ecosystem support) (40%).
• increased outbound international startup productivity (customers/suppliers) (40%).

Table 3.36: Have you achieved to date any of the following business benefits as a direct result of the Techscaler support accessed or received?

Business benefit	Achieved to date – No.	Achieved to date – %	Expect to achieve in the future – No.	Expect to achieve in the future – %
Signposted/referred to other complementary partner activity (other ecosystem support)	24	44%	21	38%
Helped me to grow and/or scale the business	22	40%	24	44%
Improved understanding of ecosystem support	22	40%	18	33%
Skills development — wider team	20	36%	17	31%
New or improved products or services	19	35%	20	36%
Improved access to ecosystem support	17	31%	17	31%
Access to workspace and meeting space with like-minded people and founders	15	27%	17	31%
Enhanced investor readiness	13	24%	13	24%
Increased inbound international inquiries	7	13%	18	33%
Increased outbound international startup productivity (customers/suppliers)	6	11%	21	38%
Funding raised/secured	5	9%	15	27%
More inbound investor activity	4	7%	12	22%
Increased number of investment deals completed	1	2%	13	24%
Other	1	2%	0	0%
It is too early to tell	1	2%	5	9%
No benefits	6	11%	4	7%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=55.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: changed product after identifying gap in the market.

3.7.4 Additionality of the support for growth and scaling stage members

Overall, the number of companies reporting that the benefits and impacts achieved/forecast were either fully or mostly attributable to Techscaler was relatively low (16%), see Table 3.37.

Table 3.37: What proportion of the reported impacts do you think can be attributed to the Techscaler support?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
None	1	3%
A small amount of the impacts (up to 10%)	5	16%
Some of the impacts (up to 25%)	16	50%
Up to half of the impacts (up to 50%)	3	9%
Most of the impacts (up to 75%)	4	13%
Almost all of the impacts (up to 90%)	0	0%
All of the impacts (100%)	1	3%
Don’t know/ Not sure	2	6%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=107.

A vast majority of members (92%) in the growth and scaling stage said that Techscaler support helped them realise their impacts earlier. Further, more than two-fifths (42%) of members reported their impacts happened on a larger scale as a direct result of Techscaler support, see Table 3.38. For example:

• timing additionality ranged from three to 24 months, with a median average of six months.
• scale additionality ranged from 15% to 80%, with a median average of 50%.

Table 3.38: Did the Techscaler support help these impacts happen…?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Earlier	22	92%
On a larger scale	10	42%
Neither	2	8%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=24.

3.8 Any other support accessed at or around the same time as Techscaler support

Half of members (51%) have received other assistance to support business startup, growth or scaleup — Table 3.39.

Table 3.39: Since joining Techscaler, have you or your company received any other assistance to support business startup, growth or scaleup (for example, grants, loans, advice, etc)?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes	87	51%
No	81	47%
Don’t know/not sure	4	2%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=172.

A positive finding is that over one-third (38%) were signposted to other forms of support either by CodeBase or their mentor, see Table 3.40.

Table 3.40: Were you referred or signposted to this other support from CodeBase and/or a Techscaler mentor?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes	33	38%
No	50	57%
Don’t know/not sure	4	5%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=87.

Many members received other support from enterprise agencies, such as Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and South of Scotland Enterprise (41%). This was followed by banks (16%), with some noting that they received support through the Barclays Eagle Labs programme — Table 3.41.

Table 3.41: Who did you receive this other support from?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Enterprise agency (Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise)	36	41%
Banks	14	16%
Scottish universities	13	15%
Business Gateway	11	13%
Innovation Centres in Scotland	10	11%
Sector bodies or organisations	10	11%
Scottish Development International	6	7%
Local authority (council) in Scotland	5	6%
Public sector organisations based outside Scotland	2	2%
Venture capital deals	0	0%
Other	17	20%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=87.

Note: ‘Other’ responses included: publishers, female founders, previous employers.

Multiple response question where respondents could select more than one option and all that applied. Percentages may total more than 100% as a result.

More detailed feedback on the nature of other support accessed was limited. Where provided, growth and scaling Techscaler members said that other support was primarily financial support such as from the Accelerator Fund or a SMART Grant. Some specifically mentioned accessing programme support such as the A1 Navigator programme, GrandScale, and IP Hatch support. Other support such as education and training, mentoring, advice (generally and specialist), and networking opportunities are also mentioned in responses.

3.9 Would you recommend Techscaler support to others

Table 3.42 sets out the responses to the question which asked Techscaler members ‘How likely are you to recommend Techscaler to other people?’. This results in a NPS of 42 which is great (61% promoters — 19% detractors).

Table 3.42: How likely are you to recommend Techscaler to other people?

Score	Number	Percentage
1	6	4%
2	3	2%
3	3	2%
4	2	1%
5	11	6%
6	7	4%
7	13	8%
8	22	13%
9	14	8%
10	90	53%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=171.

3.9.1 Detractors — unlikely to recommend Techscaler (rating of 1 to 6)

Some members said that they would be unlikely to recommend Techscaler to other people. This view is largely based on their personal experiencing of accessing Techscaler support. For example, they said that it did not meet their expectations, and that the support was largely aimed at those at a very early stage.

3.9.2 Passives — may recommend Techscaler (rating of 7 to 8)

Some Techscaler members indicated that they may recommend Techscaler to other people/founders — based on their experience of it — but caveated their response, noting that it would depend on the type of business as well as the type of support the individual/business was looking for.

These members also consider the Techscaler Programme to be mostly aimed at those at a very early stage in their startup journey, as so said they would be unlikely to recommend the programme to growth or scaling businesses.

3.9.3 Promoters — likely to recommend or have already recommended Techscaler (rating of 9 or 10)

A majority of members (61%) gave ratings that suggest they are likely to recommend Techscaler, with more than half (53%) reporting that they have already recommended Techscaler to others. Their feedback broadly notes that this is due to them having a positive experience in engaging with Techscaler. These members feel that Techscaler is ‘helpful’ and a ‘good starting programme’ for those at an early stage in their startup journey.

Other feedback from these members included:

• accessing Techscaler support benefitted their progress as it allowed them to access mentorship and support which kept them ‘accountable’ and ‘productive’ in working on their idea/project and progressing their business.
• Techscaler allowed members to develop networks and connections through mentor guidance and access to the tech ecosystem. This would have been more difficult to do in the absence of Techscaler support, as it would have required greater time and resources.
• Techscaler helped to improve members’ confidence in their idea/business as members were supported to develop a structured idea with clear next steps, improving their confidence in their startup journey.

3.10 Accessing Techscaler support in the future

The vast majority (89%) of Techscaler members said that they are likely to access Techscaler support in the future, see Table 3.43. The main reasons for expressing this view include that:

• the support received is considered helpful and valuable — members said that they are happy with the support received to date (for example, quality and range of support) and their experience of engaging with the programme.
• continued support is required to gain additional knowledge — members said they benefitted from the knowledge they received through their engagement with Techscaler and would continue to access this support to further their knowledge.
• may look at additional ideas or developing a new startup — some members indicated that they may consider introducing additional ideas or look to develop a new startup in the future. These members noted that, as they had a positive experience with Techscaler, they would use Techscaler support in the future for additional ideas/startups.

Members who said that they do not plan to access Techscaler support in the future, or are not sure, said that Techscaler does not provide support that is relevant to their business/idea and/or that the support geared toward early-stage startups. Other feedback, albeit not raised to a great extent, is that it was considered time-consuming to access the support or that they felt that aspects need updated.

Table 3.43: Do you plan to access Techscaler support again in the future?

Answer choice	Number	Percentage
Yes, definitely	114	66%
Yes, maybe	39	23%
No	11	6%
Not sure	9	5%

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey. Base=173.

Members were asked what type of support they think they will require over the short-term (within the next year) and medium-term (within three years). Responses were varied, with many providing broad suggestions, whilst others noted specific support which is tailored to their business/ideas.

Table 3.44 provides an overview of the support types most frequently mentioned by members. Additional points to note include:

• those who will require mentorship highlighted the benefits of engagement with Techscaler members, including helping to develop networks and connections, providing advice/answering queries, and help with sourcing grant funding.
• those who will require financial support stated that they will be looking to apply for grant funding within this timescale and require support to be ‘investor ready’ and submit funding applications.
• members requiring networking support said that Techscaler helped them to develop networks and connections with those in the industry and potential funders and would like this support to continue.
• some members highlighted that they will be in the growth and scaling stages within the next three years, and as such, they would require support to facilitate this business growth.

Future support required (short-term and medium-term)

Short-term support

• Mentorship
• Financial support
• Networking support

Medium-term support

• Support for growth and scaling
• Mentorship
• Financial support

Source: EKOS Techscaler member survey.

3.11 Gaps in the Techscaler or wider ecosystem

Members were asked if they feel there are any gaps in the Techscaler, or wider ecosystem, support offer to accelerate the growth of tech startups and scaleups.

Members provided a wide range of feedback, though common points raised include that there are gaps in:

• support for companies in the growth and/or scaling stages — members expressed that Techscaler support is tailored to those in the early startup stage, as such, they feel that there is a gap in support for existing businesses who require support for further growth/scaling. These members would like to see additional longer-term support to follow businesses/ideas from the early stage through to the growth and scaling stages.
• funding available to start ups — responses broadly referred to a lack of funding available to startups overall, though some note additional areas which are lacking, such as funding for female owned businesses and/or disability owned businesses.
• signposting and advertising of available funding — responses suggested that there needs to be better signposting and advertising of funding available to ensure startups are aware of and able to apply for all of the financial support that is available to them.
• fostering stronger networks for founders — members said that there are gaps surrounding support for harbouring connections between founders, suggesting that there could be further support provided to connect founders with peers who are at a similar stage to them, to provide a sense of community. Additionally, these responses highlighted a gap in support for connecting startups to investors that could provide support for their business.

Some members also provided feedback on gaps in specific sectors/areas — such as video games and hardware. These comments were tailored to their business needs and ideas of these members, as such, these were only mentioned by a small number of members.

3.12 Final comments

Around half of members (53%) provided final comments. These responses varied vastly and covered a range of issues.

Many members used the final comments section to provide praise for Techscaler and reiterate their positive experience in accessing support.

These responses often referenced the mentorship, saying this has been ‘invaluable’ and praising the Techscaler mentors and staff for being ‘enthusiastic’, ‘helpful’ and having the knowledge and understanding required to support startup businesses from an early stage.

Some members provided additional feedback on Techscaler and any critiques or improvements they would like to see. Key points to note from these responses include:

• Techscaler could offer greater engagement and more in-person offerings — these members felt that the Techscaler programme could have offered greater levels of engagement, namely in-person engagement and one-to-one support. Some noted that the initial startup stages can be ‘lonely’ and so more in-person engagement with the cohort could have provided a support network.
• greater signposting and advertising of available support — some members said that there could have been more done to advertise the full range of support that was available both through and outside Techscaler. These members noted that they were unaware of certain aspects of the support they were able to access or were receiving and feel that this should be made clearer to benefit those accessing support.
• more support is needed for those looking to grow and scale their business — similar to the feedback given elsewhere in this chapter, members suggested that there is a need for additional support for companies who are looking to grow/scale their business. These members namely refer to support with funding, investment and networking connections.
• the international programmes could have been better organised and advertised — some members felt that the trips to Singapore, Silicon Valley and San Francisco had issues with being unorganised. Some said that they found out about the trips on short notice and were unable to attend due to this.