Regional EDGE victory for First Tracks participant

An Innerleithen-based Community Interest Company have picked up the top prize in the Regional EDGE South East competition – just a week after taking part in the First Tracks programme. 

Gowaan Bike Club CIC picked up £50,000 for its inclusive cycling community focused on making biking fun, welcoming and confidence-building for riders of all ages.

Led by Bex Baraona and Chloe Taylor, Gowaan Bike Club took part in the First Tracks eight week programme – the UK’s first outdoor and tourism business launchpad.

First Tracks is focussed on supporting entrepreneurs with the development of services in the bicycle, tourism and outdoor recreation industries. 

The core programme delivery is co-hosted between South Of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) and Edinburgh Napier University (ENU).

As the Regional EDGE top prize winner, Gowaan Bike Club will go on to compete against the leading businesses from the three other regions for an additional £50,000 through the Royal Bank of Scotland–supported Winner of Winners (WOW) award.

They picked up their Regional EDGE top title at a ceremony at Barony Castle near Peebles in March 2026. 

Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of South of Scotland Enterprise, said:

Regional EDGE is a powerful platform for showcasing the innovation thriving across Scotland’s regions. For the South of Scotland, this support is essential - it strengthens our entrepreneurial ecosystem and backs the high growth start ups shaping our future.

The final has been a fantastic display of the bold ideas and ambition driving our region forward, highlighting the immense potential we have across the South.

We are proud to work in partnership with Scottish EDGE to help create the conditions for businesses to scale, attract investment and realise their full potential.

First Tracks is another example of how SOSE is working to support entrepreneurs, and for the first time this focussed on the cycling and outdoor sectors.
“First Tracks also aligns with our work on the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre, and our commitment to collaborate to deliver innovative support ahead of the Centre opening.

Evelyn McDonald, CEO of Scottish EDGE said:

Regional EDGE is fast becoming an important part of supporting ambitious entrepreneurs across Scotland. 

By taking our competitive pitch format to different parts of the country, we’re able to back businesses with the potential to grow, create jobs and strengthen the economy.

This round’s Regional EDGE South East Final has showcased the impressive strength of entrepreneurial talent across South East Scotland.

We’re grateful to SOSE for their support in making the awards possible and for helping us continue to champion the businesses building Scotland’s future.