This initiative is helping businesses thrive by securing new markets and refining products and services, as well as developing new ones, to make them more competitive.
It’s all about resilience: planning for the future, innovation and attracting investment. The Northern Innovation Hub aims to ensure that higher-skilled and better-paid jobs are created and sustained, and encourage young people to move to or stay in the region.
The Hub is helping the Highlands become more connected and outward facing, showcasing its unique offering and world-class sectors.
Support offered centres around the themes of Young People, Growth, Sectors and Place:
Have a look below to find out more about each of the programmes on offer and see how the Northern Innovation Hub can support your business.
A full list of our current Northern Innovation Hub programmes can be found here.
Adventure tourism is growing rapidly in Scotland. Take part in our business growth programme to help you become part of the success story.
Space for co-working and collaboration.
Our series of tourism webinars brings you all of the latest industry trends and insights to help you attract more businesses.
Highland Food and Drink Innovation Network
For young business leaders with their eyes on the future.
Fast-track your business.
The programme offers SMEs in the Highland Council area the opportunity to take on a graduate or student with support covering up to 50% of their salary
Progress the digital elements of your business.
I went on it to be challenged and certainly was. I’m really glad I did, I wouldn’t have be online without it. Trialling the software was a real lightbulb moment that turned everything on its head for me and my business. I would 100% recommend Pathfinder.Karen Simpson, Director and Tutor, My Primary Tutor
Many ambitious and innovative businesses across the Highlands are benefiting from our programmes. Read more about how our support has helped.
A Fort William native, Kirsty, has found time to develop her real passion - a bespoke bridal occasion and evening wear brand. After years of planning and preparation, Kirsty finally took the plunge and launched Kirsty Elizabeth Studio in 2020.
Read more hereNEXUS, our Northern Innovation Hub-supported collaborative co-working space for the life sciences and tech sector, supports the growth of many ambitious young companies. One of these is MIME Technologies.
Read more hereDiscover how one Highland business owner faced the challenges brought about by COVID-19 and, by taking part in HIE’s Pathfinder Accelerator, was able to turn them into opportunities to innovate and grow.
Read more hereWhen COVID-19 struck, the West Highland Museum in Fort William knew it would need to adapt in order to survive.
Read more hereA childhood spent in Papua New Guinea, combined with expertise in micro renewable energy systems, led Terry Stebbings and his brother Neil to develop HydroTrailer, a cost-effective mobile hydropower system designed for developing countries.
Read more hereThe Northern Innovation Hub is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal - a joint initiative supported by £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and the University of the Highlands and Islands. This programme also receives financial support through the European Regional Development Fund Scotland Programme.
If you're starting a new business and seeking advice, please contact your local business gateway adviser or visit their website for support, tutorials and business information.
