Business Lecturer Susan Cooper is turning a great idea into something that will really support families across the Scottish Borders.
Susan is kicking off 2026 with a mix of excitement and nerves as she develops a new online community platform for parents. The idea first took shape during the Borders College Start Up Project and has grown into a space designed to help parents connect, share trusted information, find local activities for their children and discover the wide range of services available across the region. At its heart, the platform is about bringing people together and making it easier for parents to feel supported.
The project reflects the kind of real-world thinking Susan encourages in her teaching. By spotting a genuine need and working towards a practical solution, she’s showing how entrepreneurship can make a positive difference in everyday life. Her belief that “parenting takes a village” sits at the centre of the platform, with community and connection as key themes.
Susan has also been supported by the South of Scotland Enterprise Pathways Programme, which has helped her move from idea to action. The guidance and encouragement she received played an important role in shaping the project and building confidence in the next steps.
To help bring the idea to life, Susan is hosting her first in-person event. The aim is to create a relaxed and welcoming space where families, clubs and local businesses can come together. While children enjoy activities, parents will have the chance to enjoy a hot drink, chat and make new connections. Susan hopes this will be the first of many events that help grow a strong, supportive community.
Susan commented:
“Seeing an idea grow from the Start Up Project into something that can genuinely support parents across the Borders has been incredibly exciting. I’m passionate about creating a space where families feel connected, supported and part of a strong community.”
Lee-Anne Gillie, Entrepreneurial Lead at Borders College, who played a key role in helping Susan get the project up and running, said:
“Susan is a fantastic example of leading by example. She’s taken an idea developed through the Start Up Project and applied the same entrepreneurial thinking she encourages in her students; spotting a real need, testing an idea, and building something that makes a positive difference in everyday life. Sometimes all it takes is belief and encouragement to help a great idea grow."
Borders College is proud to support staff who lead by example, showing students how ideas developed through college projects can grow into something meaningful and community-focused.