A tourism enterprise launched in the Highlands just six months ago is in line for a national award.
Highland Tourism is shortlisted in the One to Watch Category in the 2021 Social Enterprise Awards Scotland.
It is the only north candidate on the five-strong shortlist.
The organisers cite “the mission, purpose and impact delivered” for its recognition.
Influence and change thinking
Highland Tourism is a community interest company which started in February to help support the industry.
The organisation was founded by Yvonne Crook, director of Good Highland Food, and Sam Faircliff, managing director of Cairngorm Brewery.
Its aim is to “influence and change thinking” on tourism to help create vibrant, sustainable and resilient communities.
It champions ‘conscious travel’ which takes into consideration the environmental impact of journeys.
The organisation is also supported by Misa Novak, a consultant advisor for the tourist board in Slovenia, designated as “the first green country”.
In March, it held the first of the Highland Tourism Talks series when renowned destination specialist Professor Terry Stevens addressed an online audience.
Meeting highlighted need for better infrastructure
It was one of the largest meetings of tourism businesses in the region since the pandemic began.
Mr Stevens said the Highlands could reap great benefits in future by focusing on conscious travel.
Other events focused on the recovery of the region’s £20 million cruise industry, which attracts around 170,000 passengers annually.
An online hustings, ahead of May’s Scottish elections, highlighted as priorities for tourism better infrastructure and decentralisation of visitor management.
Highland Tourism works with golf promotion network Highland Golf Links and aims to link with a range of other sector groups.
Yvonne Crook said to date all activity has been funded through donations from businesses.
It will shorty launch a crowdfunding campaign aimed at generating a further £50,000.
She said: “This award shortlisting is an incredible recognition of the hard work the community interest company has delivered to date.
“It is national confirmation that we are moving in the right direction to achieve our target for the Highlands to become one of the world’s leading sustainable destinations.”
The awards ceremony will be held on November 2.
Chris Martin, CEO of Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “We have seen social enterprises step up to serve their local communities throughout the pandemic.
“I’m excited to hear the stories of social impact that will inevitably give our judges some difficult decisions.”