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Case study
Nathan Jones set up Skye Mountaineering on the Isle of Skye in autumn 2021, fulfilling a childhood dream of being his own boss full- time. Nate has extensive experience as an outdoor instructor and an interest in adventure therapy. He believes in the positive effects of wild places and adventurous experiences and he is passionate about offering empowering adventures to his customers.
When Nate started IMPACT30, he already had the foundations a good business, with a lot of scope for growth, but he needed help with the strategic direction. He wanted to understand the best ways to achieve growth while staying true to his mission and values.
12 months ago I did not feel in control of my business, 12 months later everything has changed and I feel empowered.Nathan Jones, Founder, Skye Mountaineering
During the 12 months he participated in this fully-funded programme, Nate faced some challenges, a season which was impacted by unprecedented strange weather, and a lot of last-minute changes. He found the one-to-one sessions invaluable: having someone to chat through ideas with and gain insight from was great. Having the accountability and the space to work on the business rather than in the business and look at things from different perspectives was highly beneficial.
Nate also found the peer-to-peer support extremely helpful. He and his fellow participants were given the opportunity to talk to each other about the similar challenges they each face and to brainstorm ideas. These discussions gave him useful insights and access to group of people who understood and supported him. Regarding his overall experience of the IMPACT30 programme, Nate said “12 months ago I did not feel in control of my business, 12 months later everything has changed and I feel empowered."
IMPACT30 is delivered through the Northern Innovation Hub, a funding programme designed to build on and accelerate business innovation.
The Northern Innovation Hub was awarded £11m from the UK Government as part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal. The deal is a joint initiative supported by £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, Highland Council, HIE and the University of the Highlands and Islands. This programme also receives financial support through the European Regional Development Fund Scotland Programme.
Explore all business support delivered through the Northern Innovation Hub.
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