Sir Tom Hunter to address business leaders at Entrepreneurial Scotland Patrons’ Lunch

Entrepreneur and philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter is set to address senior business leaders from across Scotland at this year’s Entrepreneurial Scotland Patrons’ Lunch, the organisation’s flagship fundraising event supporting the next generation of talent through its Saltire Scholars Programme.

Now in its third year, the Patrons’ Lunch has become one of the most significant gatherings in Scotland’s entrepreneurial calendar, bringing together founders, chief executives, patrons, and supporters for an afternoon focused on leadership, opportunity, and Scotland’s future. Previous keynote speakers have included Lord Haughey Kt. OBE, Bob Keiller CBE and, most recently, Professor Sir Jim McDonald GBE alongside Entrepreneurial Scotland Chairman Andy Lothian.

To date, the Patrons’ Lunch has raised more than £110,000 in support of the Saltire Scholars Programme, which provides students from Scottish universities with fully funded internship opportunities across the world. This year, the programme is set to place more than 200 students in internships across Scotland, the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.

Speaking ahead of the event, Sir Tom Hunter, founder of The Hunter Foundation and one of Scotland’s best-known entrepreneurs and philanthropists, said:

“Scotland has no shortage of talent, ambition, or potential. What changes lives is when people come together to back each other, create opportunities and help the next generation see what they’re capable of.

“That’s why events like the Patrons’ Lunch matter. When business leaders support young people to gain experience, build confidence and broaden their horizons, we’re not just investing in individuals, we’re investing in Scotland’s future.”

Sean McGrath, Chief Executive of Entrepreneurial Scotland, said the organisation was delighted to welcome Sir Tom as this year’s keynote speaker. He said:

“Sir Tom has consistently championed entrepreneurship, opportunity, and Scotland’s potential, not just through business success but through his commitment to helping others succeed.

“The Patrons’ Lunch brings together leaders from across Scotland’s business community who share a belief in backing the next generation and creating opportunities for young people to realise their potential. The support generated through the event has a direct and lasting impact through the Saltire Scholars Programme.”

This year’s Patrons’ Lunch will take place at the historic Signet Library and will include a charity auction supporting the continued growth and reach of the Saltire Scholars Programme.