Workshops for businesses with ideas for growth

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 

Aviemore 

Forres 

Caithness

Shetland