Call for young entrepreneurs to register for final support programme

IMPACT30 was launched by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in 2018 to help nurture and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.  

The 12-month programme is currently in its 14th intake with over 200 participants having benefited so far. The 15th and final cohort will begin in January 2025 and potential participants are being encouraged to register interest with a view to making a formal application by 17 January. 

IMPACT30 forms part of the Northern Innovation Hub (NIH). NIH is part of the Inverness and Highland City Region deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth. 

The IMPACT30 programme was originally offered to enterprises in the Highland Council area before HIE provided additional funding to extend it to organisations across the Highlands and Islands region.   

Delivered by business skills training consultancy, Skillfluence, the fully funded programme provides comprehensive guidance and support tailored to participants’ individual aspirations. 

Through mentorship, workshops and networking opportunities, they are given help to refine their skills and to forge connections that will play a pivotal role in commercialising their business ideas. 

The 14th cohort launched in September with 24 people taking part. Among them is Hugo Taillandier of La Renaissance – Home Creations in Tain who said: 

“Being part of this programme is giving me the confidence to accelerate my business and really bring it to life. After one month, my goals not only feel doable but I know that I’ll be able to achieve much more than what I envisioned by being on my own.” 

Also taking part is Rachel Silk of Robertson Shellfish in Coll, who said: 

“IMPACT30 has been brilliant so far.  I feel privileged to be surrounded by lots of inspiring people and able to use the collective motivation to grow our businesses whilst learning new skills.  I’m hoping to get a clearer vision of where my business can go from here and develop my understanding of business finances in particular.” 

Deborah Tait, development manager with HIE’s Northern Innovation Hub team, said: 

“Entrepreneurship is absolutely essential to business and economic growth and job creation. It’s been amazing to witness the progression of young people in the region who have taken part in IMPACT30. The programme has helped them to cultivate their ideas and continue the crucial journey towards commercialising those ideas. 

“Since the programme began in 2018, it has proved extremely popular and we would urge any young entrepreneurs to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the last IMPACT30 cohort .” 

More information is available on the IMPACT30 page of HIE’s website