Highland food and drink sector urged to apply for support programme

The support is part of the second phase of Food and Drink TechHUB, which itself is part of the Northern Innovation Hub (NIH), a multi-million-pound initiative led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) under the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.

The TechHub has already supported 190 businesses.

Through this technology focused element of the programme, businesses can access up to 10 days of support from Intelligens Consulting, to identify and implement technologies that address specific challenges or opportunities. The support is primarily delivered online with site visits included where practical.

At the end of the programme, businesses receive a bespoke, detailed and fully-costed Technology Adoption plan. This can be used to apply for HIE funding to implement the recommended technology and training.

One of the businesses already benefiting from the support is family-run business, Miele’s Gelateria in Inverness. They were recently visited by Intelligens to understand their challenges and priorities. The company has been able to commission technology that enables them to operate more efficiently and reduce downtime by monitoring machinery remotely and identifying potential issues at an early stage.

Michael Miele, director at Miele’s Gelateria, said:

“The support from the programme is invaluable. It will help us to streamline our operations, improve our product quality and expand our market reach. With the experts’ guidance, we’ll be better equipped to meet the demands of our business and can continue to grow.”

HIE’s head of food and drink Anna Miller said: 

“Food and Drink TechHUB will support Highland food and drink businesses to grow by becoming more productive and competitive as well as greener. There’s a focus on developing new products and services, and improving processes, as well as creating efficiencies and enhancing skills. 

“We’d encourage eligible businesses across the Highland Council area to register their interest through our website or contact their local HIE office.”

Food and Drink TechHUB was launched in September 2024 for businesses in the Highland Council area. It includes access to training, funding, networking and advice, to help businesses - including social and community enterprises - with commercial growth and net zero activities.  

The Northern Innovation Hub project is funded by UK Government, ERDF and HIE through the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal. The Deal is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and the University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth. 

Food and drink related companies can find out more about Food and Drink TechHUB by visiting HIE’s website or contacting their local HIE office.