New fund announced by HIE to advance outdoor tourism in Sutherland
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With more Scots than ever choosing to ‘staycation’ post lockdown and explore all that Scotland has to offer, the demand for authentic, outdoor experiences is growing.
A new programme from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Let’s Grow Adventure Tourism, is calling on adventure tourism businesses to apply for support and grow their offering.
The scheme will offer a series of specialist workshops with inspiring speakers, one-to-one expert advice and collaboration opportunities with like-minded businesses.
Those taking part will gain insight into emerging local, national and international trends to understand challenges and opportunities for adventure tourism in the Highlands.
In depth analysis into Scotland’s tourism sector and experience economy, including how to use market research effectively will be explored.
David Oxley, director of business growth at HIE, said: “We are looking for motivated and enthusiastic businesses of all sizes to register interest. If you are keen to develop professional and personal skills, capabilities and industry connections, this programme is for you. We’ll work with businesses to maximise their potential, examining a range of topics including how technology can increase margins and make for better client experience. Delegates will come away with a tailored, business development plan to realise their ambitions and boost the adventure tourism sector here in Scotland.”
UK Government Minister for Scotland David Duguid, said: “I encourage all adventure tourism businesses and entrepreneurs to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity. It’s vital that our tourism industry bounces back from the pandemic and thrives once again. The UK Government is doing all it can to support jobs and businesses with a £160 billion coronavirus support package.
“We are also investing more than £1.5 billion in City Region and Growth Deals across Scotland to fund innovative projects that create jobs and secure the future of our economy.”
The fully funded programme offers flexible support and has been designed specifically to develop adventure tourism experiences. It is open to a range of businesses looking to grow, from adrenaline-inducing mountain biking and white-water rafting, to hillwalking, wild camping, foraging and cookery.
Let’s Grow Adventure Tourism forms part of the Northern Innovation Hub, a project led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) with £11m from the UK Government and £1.7m ERDF support as part of the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal.
To register your interest, visit hie.co.uk/adventure-tourism before Friday August 7.
