Limited space for businesses on Digital Tourism Support programme
Businesses in the tourism sector and its supply chain in the Highland Council area are being encouraged to secure a place on the Digital Tourism Support Programme.
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The ‘Ideas for Growth’ workshops will be held at:
Islesburgh Community Centre, Lerwick, Shetland, Wednesday 27 November.
8 Doors Distillery, John O' Groats, Tuesday 3 December.
Macdonald Aviemore Resort, Aviemore, Wednesday 4 December.
Horizon Scotland, Forres, Thursday 5 December.
The workshops will all be held 9am-1pm and will cover perspectives on growth, alternative approaches, sources of inspiration and practical applications for business. Participants will learn what make a good idea, how to prioritise, build on and develop it. The event is part of HIE’s New Product Development Programme, aimed at established businesses with new products or services ready for market.
The Ideas for Growth workshop will be delivered by HIE’s innovation team. Businesses have already benefited from HIE’s innovation support. For example, Windswept and Interesting owned by Rod Read in Shetland, develops kite turbines for eco travellers, electric vehicles and the agricultural industry.
His innovative system uses wind to lift a kite, which turns a ground-based generator to produce power. HIE supported him in his research and development, focusing on planning, design, testing and data capturing. This low-cost, low-carbon energy system is a testament to the potential of innovative solutions.
HIE recently extended its innovation support to Soapery 21, a thriving Shetland-based business. This collaboration aims to enhance Soapery 21's production capabilities and market reach through advanced technology and sustainable practices.
Funding was provided for state-of-the-art equipment, expert consultancy, and access to a network of industry specialists. This initiative not only boosts Soapery 21's growth but also highlights HIE's commitment to promoting innovation and economic development in Shetland .
In Aviemore, timber specialist firm, Russwood Ltd undertook a programme of research and development with support from HIE to expand its offerings and focus on innovating and sustainable timber products for the future.
James Jones & Sons in Mosstodloch, Moray, received support from HIE for an R&D project. They conducted a feasibility study on producing and quality testing Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) using native raw materials from north-east Scotland to determine its viability for full-scale production in the UK
John Mackenzie, senior development manager in HIE’s innovation team, said:
“We’re pleased to be hosting the Ideas for Growth workshops at locations across the Highlands and Islands. This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and entrepreneurs to come together, share innovative ideas and explore new growth ideas. By encouraging collaboration and creativity, we can drive sustainable economic development in the region. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this workshop will have on our community.”
Events have already taken place in the Outer Hebrides, Fort William and Skye.
For more information about how HIE can help through innovation support visit https://www.hie.co.uk/support/browse-all-support-services/innovation/
To reserve a spot on one of the Ideas for growth workshops, visit
Businesses in the tourism sector and its supply chain in the Highland Council area are being encouraged to secure a place on the Digital Tourism Support Programme.
A £1.6m project to boost the Easter Ross economy through net zero initiatives, community learning and development has been awarded up to £450,000 from HIE.
The Scottish Government has pledged £100,000 to support Highlands and Islands businesses as Regional EDGE awards take place at Horizon Scotland
Ambitious plans to create a major new renewables hub in Orkney have been accelerated with a £5m grant to help take the project to the next stage.
Young Gaelic speakers passionate about storytelling can apply for one of five £5,000 grants to bring their innovative ideas to life.
A community-owned visitor centre in Drumnadrochit is enhancing cycling facilities for visitors.
An innovative project to increase production and reduce carbon emissions at a mussel firm in Shetland has secured a £49,983 contribution from HIE.
Young businesses and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands looking to increase productivity, innovation and employment can apply for funding from HIE.
A boating club in Unst, a kirk in Whalsay and a community hall in Fetlar are among projects supported by HIE to generate income, provide vital services and create jobs in Shetland’s outer isles.
Lerwick Distillery Ltd is set to open later this year