Supporting young entrepreneurs through the Saltire Scholar programme
Peter McAdoo, a final-year International Business student at Strathclyde University, joined our team at Innovative Partners through the Saltire Scholars programme to gain hands-on business experience and put his studies into practice. With ambitions to become a future business leader, Peter was drawn to the programme’s focus on developing talent and supporting entrepreneurial growth.
Internship at Innovative Partners
Peter spent the summer as an intern at Innovative Partners, giving him the opportunity to work across multiple areas of the business. He received in-depth training, learning about every stage of the process, and gained vital skills and experience for his future career.
During his internship, Peter took on a variety of tasks, including:
Collating financial documents
Supporting operations with client communications
Maintaining consistent administrative processes
The experience allowed him to develop new skills while adopting our proactive and client-focused approach. Peter said he enjoyed working with a team who encouraged curiosity and supported him as he grew in confidence.
Learning from the wider Carlowrie Group
Innovative Partners is part of the Carlowrie Group, which includes businesses and charities working together with a shared mission of doing business for good. Visiting other organisations within the group inspired Peter, giving him a deeper understanding of the group’s purpose and ideas for how he could contribute in the future.
Personal growth and entrepreneurial mindset
Throughout the placement, Peter’s knowledge and skills were challenged and stretched. He became more confident in approaching tasks, proud of finding his place within the team, and grateful for an environment that was both supportive and challenging.
The internship inspired him to consider entrepreneurship more seriously. Peter now feels running his own business is exciting and achievable, and he has gained insight into the resilience and optimism required to succeed as an entrepreneur.
Becoming a Brand Ambassador
Following his internship, Peter signed up to be a Saltire Scholars brand ambassador, hoping to encourage other students to take advantage of the programme. He has enjoyed connecting with Entrepreneurial Scotland’s network and looks forward to further opportunities to get involved.
