Rural and Island Businesses
Below, we highlight several key organisations supporting rural and island businesses and entrepreneurs.
Business Advice
If you’re looking for funding and support for your rural business or project there are a range of organisations that can help.
Practical help, advice and support for new and growing businesses in Scotland.
Highland & Islands Enterprise (HIE) provides help and support for businesses and communities in the Highlands & Islands.
Highlands & Islands Enterprise
Scotland’s national economic development agency. They enable businesses to innovate and scale to transform Scotland’s economy.
They can provide grants, business development advice and support innovation. They can also support business with exporting and international trade .
South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) is the one-stop shop for businesses and enterprising communities throughout Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders.
Their our support is tailored to your business stage and situation. Services can include training, advice, specialist expertise, and funding (grants and loans).
Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Scotland work with their members, the Scottish Government, elected representatives, councils and many other decision-makers across the country to support small businesses and the self-employed.
Providing support for small businesses, social enterprises and the self-employed in rural Scotland. This includes peer support, mentoring, learning sessions, etc.
Business Support – Food Tourism Industry Guide
VisitScotland have published a handy Food Tourism Industry Guide to support rural and island businesses.
Businesses can learn what food tourism is, how it can benefit their business and how to develop quality food tourism experiences.
Food and drink are a key part of a visit to Scotland, with visitors keen to try local food and drink. Thanks to our landscape, we have a rich, natural larder and plenty of home grown produce to offer visitors. We have diverse food and drink experiences and passionate local food ambassadors.
The guide covers an array of sections such as;
- How to develop a quality food tourism experience
- How to market your food tourism business
- How to source local produce
- Providing Food and Drink experiences
- Case Studies and inspiration
You can also find further resources on funding, upskilling, food standards, annual awards and more.
Use this food tourism industry guide to discover how to create impactful experiences that exceed the expectations of visitors and help you make the most of this lucrative market.
You can access the guide here
Scotland Food and Drink are a membership organisation committed to delivering competitive edge. They develop growth strategies, broaden networks and help to share market opportunities. Find out more at their website here
Scottish Agritourism
Scottish Agritourism is the official body for agritourism in Scotland, providing leadership and a strong voice to represent and grow the sector.
They are a close-knit network of quality agritourism and quality rural businesses scattered throughout all parts of the Scottish countryside who offer locals and visitors alike high quality and memorable experiences.
Throughout the year they host events, bringing their members together for a chance to discuss the big issues, new innovations, and opportunities to grow Scottish Agritourism.
You can access their website here
