Net Zero
We have a range of support available to help business, social enterprises and communities in the Highlands and Islands transition to net zero.
What is it?
HIE's Climate Springboard is a free six-week support programme being run for us by Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI).
It’s a straightforward, expert-led route to help you understand, plan, and act on climate change. You’ll finish the programme with:
- a compliant carbon footprint;
- a clear, achievable net zero action plan;
- a tailored to-do list of quick wins to lower emissions and costs;
- a resource pack containing step-by-step guides; and
- access to a growing network of over 275 organisations on similar journeys.
Who is eligible?
The programme is open to small and medium sized businesses, social enterprises, community organisations and charities in any sector from across the Highlands and Islands.
Ideally, to help baseline your carbon footprint, you will have been trading/operating for a year.
It’s suitable for both beginners and those already on their sustainability journey.
What's involved?
The programme runs in online groups, each offering around 8 -12 hours of guided support over six weeks. You’ll take part in:
- an onboarding call to get to know your organisation;
- three lively, online group workshops lasting 2.5 hours each, fortnightly;
- a ‘Springboard Session’ to finalise your plan with expert feedback; and
- optional follow-up calls to tackle specific challenges.
Programme schedule
The next cohort starts Tuesday 13 January 2026. The online sessions will be:
- Workshop one: Tuesday 13 January, 9.30am - noon
- Workshop two: Tuesday 27 January, 9.30am - noon
- Workshop three: Tuesday 10 February, 9.30am - noon
- Springboard accountability session: Tuesday 24 February, 9.30 - 11.30am
Can’t make this training group? Here are our future online cohort dates for your diary:
Cohort 3: Thursdays - 12, 26 Feb; 12, 19 March
Cohort 4: Tuesdays - 17, 31 March; 21, 28 April
Cohort 5: Thursdays - 30 April; 14, 28 May; 4 June
Cohort 6: Tuesdays - 26 May; 9, 23, 30 June
How to apply
Please complete our online form to apply to take part in our Climate Springboard.
Need to speak to us?
If you would like to talk to someone about your application, please email enquiries@hient.co.uk and we will get back to you.
Related support
Check out the other support we have available
HIE Green Grant Fund
Closed to applications until Spring 2026. The HIE Green Grant Fund provides up to £250,000 to businesses and social enterprises to support their journey to net zero.
Community and asset development
Increasing the role of communities in the ownership and management of land and assets
Browse all support services
We support businesses, communities and social enterprises through a range of services, including advice, funding, events and property. Find out how we can help you.
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