Reed partnership & X-Forces enterprise launch Forces community entrepreneur fund

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the UK Armed Forces community, Reed in Partnership has announced the launch of the Forces Community Entrepreneur Fund, in partnership with X-Forces Enterprise.

Since October 2024, Reed in Partnership has been working with individuals leaving the Armed Forces to support their transition into civilian life through the Career Transition Partnership (CTP). The new Forces Community Entrepreneur Fund will extend this support further into the wider community, offering a grant of £10,000 to help non-CTP veterans and other community members with the costs of starting or growing a business.

Reed in Partnership is collaborating with X-Forces Enterprise, the leading provider of business support within the Armed Forces community, to deliver the initiative. The Fund was promoted to participants of X-Forces Enterprise’s Start-Up Skills workshop, a two-day course designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to plan and launch a business. From this pool of applicants, X-Forces Enterprise shortlisted 12 outstanding candidates and submitted them for Reed in Partnership’s review.

Each of the shortlisted candidates received tailored support to refine their business concepts, complete their applications and prepare for the next stage. Following a competitive selection process, two finalists have now been chosen to present their business plans to an expert panel.

Dan Lander, Armed Forces veteran and Programme Director of the CTP at Reed in Partnership, said:

“Reed in Partnership’s mission has always been to positively transform people and their communities, and the Forces Community Entrepreneur Fund is just one of the ways we can support and give back to those who have served and their families.

“The process of whittling applications to just two final candidates has been tough, given the quality of ideas and the determination of those involved. This grant will offer a significant opportunity to a worthy winner to help establish or take their business to the next level. I’m really looking forward to deciding on the final award and seeing what the recipient achieves next.”

Ren Kapur MBE, Founder and CEO of X-Forces Enterprise, added:

“We’re delighted to be working alongside Reed in Partnership on the Forces Community Entrepreneur Fund. Access to start-up capital is often the make-or-break moment for a new business, and it’s been genuinely inspiring to see the creativity, passion and determination coming through from members of the Armed Forces community. These are more than just business ideas, they are also job creators of the future.”