Tourism learning and networking programme for island communities
A free learning and networking programme to help maximise the benefits of tourism for communities is being offered to community groups, social enterprises, tourism businesses and local organisations across Scotland's islands.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is delivering the Islands Community Tourism Learning and Networking Programme on behalf of the Scottish Government, as part of a National Islands Plan commitment to provide tailored tourism training for island communities.
Running from October 2026 to February 2027 the programme will be delivered through weekly online interactive workshops to help communities develop the skills and confidence to manage tourism sustainably while ensuring benefits are retained locally.
HIE has commissioned the Scottish Community Tourism Network (SCOTO CIC) to deliver the programme which will consist of eleven interactive online workshops covering topics such as community-led tourism, governance and partnerships, destination development, visitor management, sustainability and measuring impact. Participants will also have opportunities to learn from case studies and peers from island communities across Scotland.
Those taking part are expected to come from a range of island organisations and interests, including community organisations, development trusts, community councils, tourism businesses, sole traders, voluntary groups and individuals involved in supporting and developing tourism in their local area.
The National Islands Plan recognises tourism as a vital contributor to island economies and supports the development of a sustainable visitor economy that creates jobs and opportunities while protecting communities, culture and the natural environment.
Head of tourism at HIE, Anna Miller, said:
"This programme is designed specifically for island communities and recognises the important role local people play in shaping how tourism develops in their area.
"Tourism brings significant opportunities for many islands, but communities also need the tools, skills and confidence to ensure its benefits are retained locally. This programme will bring people together to learn from experts and peers, share knowledge between islands and gain practical tools to help shape tourism in ways that support local priorities and benefit local people, businesses and priorities.”
Minister for Agriculture, Marine and the Islands Jim Fairlie said:
“Our islands are a core part of Scotland’s tourism offer and international appeal, attracting visitors from around the world. We want to ensure island communities have access to advice and support to shape tourism in a way that is sustainable, reflects local priorities, and delivers lasting benefits for residents.
“I am delighted the Scottish Government has been able to work in partnership with HIE and SCOTO to progress this important commitment from our new National Islands Plan and offer our islands’ businesses and tourism operators free support and tailored training.”
The first webinar, ‘Foundations of Community-Led Tourism,’ takes place on Thursday 29 October. Further sessions will run every Thursday through to February 2027, covering topics including community governance, stakeholder engagement, destination development and enterprise opportunities, visitor management, climate action, community benefit, and the development of locally tailored tourism action plans.
They will also be able to apply for one of 12 places on a four-day learning journey to Orkney in March 2027, providing additional opportunities to learn from successful community-led tourism initiatives and attend the Scottish Community Tourism Gathering.
For more information and to register for each session, visit Our website
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