Tourism providers in the north of Scotland are being encouraged to come forward with their ideas to make use of a £3.2 million approval before it is too late.

'HIE Activity 2' which was approved with funding of £1.12 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and £2.08 million from the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) network earlier this year, will close for new applications in September 2006.

The scheme is available to a broad spectrum of activity providers from wildlife, walking, mountaineering and cycling to water and snow sports, adventure and outdoor culture and heritage.

HIE's senior tourism development manager Maria Peter said the area's rich and varied range of activities were an asset to the Highlands and Islands.

She said: "'HIE Activity 2' is there to help encourage private sector investment in the expanding activity tourism sector and accelerate improvements in the quality and overall competitiveness of this exciting sector.  Unfortunately the scheme will close for applications next September which is why people need to speak to us as soon as possible.

"Visitors are now much more interested in activities as part of their holiday and although it has been a growing part of the north tourism sector, it still offers significant future potential.  I would encourage tourism operators to think about how they could make use of 'HIE Activity 2' and approach their local enterprise company (LEC) to discuss ideas and potential funding that may be available before it's too late."

New and existing businesses may qualify for support through 'HIE Activity 2' and whilst activity tourism to many people means adventure-based activities, more passive or cultural pursuits like visual arts, events and festivals may also qualify for funding. 

One business that has taken full advantage of 'HIE Activity 2' is Toravaig House Hotel on the Isle of Skye which was voted Scottish Island Hotel of the Year 2005.  Owners Anne Gracie and Ken Gunn have used 'HIE Activity 2' to develop their business and offer a unique experience to their guests.

With £5,200 of a HIE Activity development grant and £9,800 from Skye and Lochalsh Enterprise, Toravaig House Hotel now offers day sailing excursions on the hotel's own yacht around the stunning coastline of South Skye.

Anne Gracie from Toravaig House Hotel said: "The purchase of the yacht will provide a high quality experience that will add to the high levels of service, accommodation and food on offer at the hotel.  It has given our business a new dimension and will result in more people returning to our establishment as well as an added attraction for those coming here for the first time."

To find out more about 'HIE Activity 2' contact your local enterprise company in the first instance.