A new training programme has been launched today (Monday 3 November) to inspire people in Moray and parts of Argyll to think about starting a business.
Pathways to Start is a six-week fully funded programme offering tailored one-to-one and group training. Participants will learn from experienced mentors, grow their confidence, learn to think like an entrepreneur and network with like-minded people.
Grants of up to £1,000 will be available to participants to help them test and develop their new business idea.
The programme supports people from historically underrepresented groups in business, such as women, young people, military veterans, rehabilitating offenders, carers and those with neurodiversity or physical disabilities.
The ambition is to widen participation in entrepreneurship and support people to overcome barriers to start their own business.
The programme has been developed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) with funding from the Scottish Government and the training will be provided by Skillfluence.
Rachel Hunter, HIE’s director of enterprise and community support said:
“Entrepreneurship is fundamental to economic growth and it’s something our region is noted for. For every person who starts a business, however, there will be many others who have great ideas but unsure how to take them forward. People from underrepresented groups may also be experiencing greater challenges than others.
“Pathways to Start is about overcoming those obstacles and inspiring more people into self-employment. It will provide them with the initial skills and confidence they need to take any ideas they may have and move towards starting a business, possibly becoming an employer and contributing to the wider economy.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:
“A successful, vibrant economy needs high-growth, innovative start-up businesses and this in turn is reliant on supporting and nurturing business talent – talent which I know lies in every corner of our country.
“The Pathways to Start programme forms part of a £6 million investment the Scottish Government is investing in this year to tackle under-representation in our start-up community. I urge anyone who has ever considered starting or developing a business idea or company, or even those who might not have thought of themselves as an business owner, to find out how the programme can support them.”
UHI Moray and CJM Lumina will hold a series of events in Moray while Skilllfluence will hold events in Argyll to showcase the training, which will start in January. People interested are asked to register by Friday 5 December to start in January 2026.
For more information and to register visit https://www.hie.co.uk/pathways
