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Deadline approaching for £4.4m targeted support for island businesses

Published: 01/09/2025

A funding package developed to support island businesses affected by ferry disruption will accept applications for another two weeks.


Businesses in North Uist, South Uist, Eriskay, Berneray, Benbecula, Grimsay, Arran and Colonsay have until 15 September to apply for funding aimed at supporting those affected by ferry disruption.

The Islands Business Resilience Fund (IBRF) is designed to provide a much-needed boost to a range of sectors including shops, café, accommodation providers, leisure venues and visitor attractions, tour guides, taxi drivers, fresh food companies and more.

Businesses involved in visitor/tourism services or making, storing or transporting perishable produce are encouraged to check if they’re eligible.

£4.4m has been allocated to the fund which was established to help address issues, such as travel disruption, that can have a disproportionate impact on people and businesses living, and operating on Scotland’s islands.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is managing the IBRF on behalf of the Scottish Government. Applications will be accepted until 12 noon 15 September 2025 with decisions and payments expected by 31 October 2025.

Funding awards will be based on demand and the size of organisations that apply for support but awards are expected to range between £3,000 and £35,000.

Commenting, Cabinet Secretary for Islands, Mairi Gougeon said:

“We know this fund will make a real difference to the businesses who need it most and to ensure all eligible applicants have had sufficient opportunity to apply, we will accept applications for a further two weeks.

“Scotland’s island communities face distinct challenges, not least in terms of their economic and social resilience. People and businesses require ferry services running reliably and frequently to support their livelihoods.

“I encourage all eligible businesses to speak to Highlands and Islands Enterprise who are managing the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government, about their application and the documents needed.”

More details and apply here

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