Bids for a share of a £120,000 challenge fund should be lodged with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) from Monday (January 8). The cash is open to groups or individuals who have ideas for projects which marry up tourism, heritage and technology in an innovative and effective way.

A minimum of three applicants will be awarded up to £40,000 under the scheme which was launched by HIE, Aim-HI and Fusion at an all-day event chaired by TV presenter Muriel Gray in November last year.

A number of groups have already shown interest in submitting their proposals. If chosen, they will receive not only financial backing, but substantial support for developing their project including the chance for their representative to visit the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston which collaborates closely with HIE.

HIE's heritage manager Bill Taylor explained: "We want as many individuals and groups as possible to submit creative ideas on how they might use technology to connect visiting tourists with the region's outstanding natural heritage. If any of the successful bids require less than £40,000 obviously we can select additional entries to utilise the remaining funds.

"This offers a fantastic opportunity for the winning candidates. Their projects will be completed by November of this year and during that time they'll receive the highest calibre of support, largely through the new Distance Lab in Moray which is being developed as a unique world-class research institute.

"In addition, going to Boston will give the candidates exceptional networking opportunities and the chance to experience revolutionary developments using leading-edge technology."

Entries will be judged on innovation, evidence of strong cross-sectoral collaboration and meeting marketing needs. Those that miss out on the financial awards will still receive advice on how best to develop their proposals.

Entries opened today (January 8) and close at the end of the month (January 31) Anyone interested can find out more at www.hie.co.uk/tht-challenge

Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on February 12 or 13, 2007.

Entries will be judged by HIE, Aim-Hi and Distance Lab staff. Winners will be announced on February 16.