A programme to support growth among businesses in Lochaber has opened for applications.
Developed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the free Pathfinder Accelerator scheme is aimed at existing and start-up companies in the engineering, technology, IT, health and life sciences sectors.
The six-month programme is designed to help companies evaluate their business model, build a network of contacts and pressure-test ideas.
It will be run for HIE by Stirling-based business development consultancy the Leadership Factory, with a taster session taking place in Fort William on March 18.
The programme involves six face-to-face meetings with coaches over 12 weeks, with additional remote sessions and coaching weeks. It will be followed by a further three months’ coaching and mentoring, with opportunities to develop contacts, source funding and plan for future growth.
Previous participant, Karrie Marshall, director and founder of Creativity in Care, said: “Pathfinder provided me with an opportunity to test ideas and connect with potential customers that I had not even considered. It has helped me realise my ‘inner business self’.
“Since Pathfinder I can feel the momentum building and I have secured more contracts for Creativity in Care.”
James Cameron, HIE’s head of life sciences, said: “Commercial success of any new idea depends on a strong business model and being able to reach the right market. The Pathfinder programme not only guides companies and start-ups through this process but assists with funding, networking and expert insight.”
