Fully endorsed by the ScaleUp Institute, The Hunter Foundation runs three high-impact scale-up programmes under the Scale Up Scotland brand from their Ayrshire HQ at Blair Castle & Estate: https://blairestate.co.uk
Pre-Scaler – open to ambitious entrepreneurs who have gained early customer traction (typically £100k+ revenue), offering five development events over seven months focused on fundraising, leadership, people planning, sales & marketing, and effective communication.
Core – designed for high-potential Scottish firms with £1m+ turnover, consistent year-on-year growth, and ambition to scale globally.
The Challenge
Founders and CEOs on these programmes communicate daily with boards, teams, investors, customers, and other stakeholders — all while growing their businesses at pace. Their challenge: deliver clear, compelling, and confident messaging across multiple audiences under pressure.
Our Approach
We deliver 1-day and 1.5-day Masterclasses for each cohort, equipping founders with the tools to communicate with authority and impact:
- Developing a natural, credible, and authoritative style
- Delivering with confidence and audience engagement
- Managing nerves and performance pressure
- Structuring content for clarity and impact
- Implementing a repeatable, efficient preparation process
- Using visual aids effectively
- Thinking on your feet and handling questions
The Results
After working with us, founders can:
- Analyse their communication strengths and areas for growth
- Deliver with authority, credibility, and consistency
- Communicate with confidence and natural presence
- Manage nerves and perform under pressure
- Craft strong, audience-focused messaging
- Save time through a streamlined preparation process
What the Founders Say
“Maryanne should be on speed dial. Her guidance and knowledge are needed whenever communicating to an audience, in whatever context.”
Julia Clarke, Taylor Osborne
“Exceptional, a perfect package of technique, insight, relevance.”
John Moore, Whitebox Dental
“Maryanne was interesting, engaging and extremely knowledgeable. She improved my presentation and communication skills in a short time, sharing invaluable insight. Best of all, she held our attention all day without ever losing energy or focus.”
Ian Hanley, CTO, Thistle Rocketry