Young people in the Western Isles, Skye and Lochalsh are about to be introduced to the world of innovation and entrepreneurship, thanks to an EU initiative called Leader+.

The Leader+ local action group for the area, in conjunction with Western Isles Enterprise and (WIE) Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, has approved funding of £23,400 for a project to establish strong links between local businesses and young people in the community.  The total cost of the project will be £46,800 over two years.

The project is being implemented by Fusion, which was established in 2002 in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to stimulate and encourage entrepreneurship and innovation in businesses across the Highlands and Islands.

The organisation has appointed local businessman, Jackie Mackay, to work with the   business community, teachers and school pupils to develop and support a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Mr Mackay said: "Innovative business activity is essential in order to enhance the sustainable development prospects of local communities and we will be organising a wide range of events over the next two years to promote that goal." 

Fusion's Chief Executive, Bruce Morrison, sees the Leader+ project as a natural addition to Fusion's existing activities.

He said: "We have over 170 member businesses across the Highlands and Islands, many of them in rural areas, who meet regularly to discuss and develop new project ideas, make new contacts and share best practice.  They come from organisations of various sizes and from a wide range of business sectors, but they all share a commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation, and are very excited at this chance to share their expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm with young people in their areas."

Rona Macleod, Leader+ co-ordinator said: "We are delighted to support this project, which will raise awareness of enterprise in education and promote the involvement of businesses in schools."