Press Release

Around 100 entrepreneurs and organisations across the Highlands and Islands are expected to benefit from a new digital and technology support programme launched today (Thursday 20 August).

The one-year Digital and Technology Entrepreneurship (DaTE) programme will support start-ups and small organisations to develop new digital and technology products, processes and services. Participants will receive expert advice, mentoring and funding through the programme, which is led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and delivered in collaboration with BT, helping to drive innovation, business growth and job creation across the region.

Tailored support will help turn innovative ideas into commercial opportunities, strengthen entrepreneurial skills and accelerate the growth of digital and technology-led organisations across the region.

While Highlands and Islands businesses and social enterprises are recognised for innovation, many in rural and island locations can face challenges accessing specialist expertise, investment and technical support.

The new HIE programme has been designed to help overcome these barriers through a mix of events, mentoring, networking opportunities and grant funding.

The support includes entrepreneurial mentoring and advice, grant funding for digital and technology projects and Kickstart grants.

The programme will build skills, confidence and innovation capacity, strengthen the pipeline of emerging digital and technology businesses in the region, and create new opportunities for growth and jobs.

The initiative forms part of BT’s purpose to Connect for Good and its commitment to helping communities develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a digital world. It sits alongside the rollout of new gigabit-capable broadband delivered by Openreach as part of Project Gigabit, the government’s programme to bring fast, reliable broadband to hard-to-reach areas.

HIE’s team leader for digital economy Theresa Swayne said:  

“Digital and technology business founders, and creators of new tech ideas and products, have a vital role to play in the future prosperity of the Highlands and Islands economy. We want to ensure that great ideas can flourish wherever they emerge, from our towns to our most rural and island locations.

“This programme will give entrepreneurs access to the skills, expertise and funding they need to innovate, grow and bring new products and services to market. We’re delighted to be working with BT to help unlock the region’s entrepreneurial potential.”

Richard Marsh, BT Responsible Business Director added: 

“Digital technology is creating new opportunities for people and businesses across the UK, but talent and ambition exist in every community, not just our largest cities. As we continue to invest in the connectivity that underpins modern life, we’re also committed to helping people and businesses make the most of the opportunities that technology creates.

“This programme will help entrepreneurs across the Highlands and Islands access the skills, networks and support they need to grow. Through BT’s ambition to support 30 million people, businesses and families with digital skills, tools and support by 2030, we’re helping ensure that the benefits of technology and economic growth can be felt in every postcode of the UK.”

Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn said:

“Geography should never be a barrier to turning ideas and invention into economic success. Scotland’s future prosperity depends on us unlocking innovation in every part of the country and The Highlands and Islands has entrepreneurial talent and ambition in abundance.

“By supporting entrepreneurs to develop new products, attract investment and build businesses rooted in their communities, this programme is an important step in unlocking even more of the region’s economic potential.”

To support the rollout of the programme, HIE is collaborating with Techscaler, a Scottish Government initiative delivered by CodeBase, to deliver a series of regional events across the Highlands and Islands.

The joint roadshow series will raise awareness of the funding and specialist advice available through the HIE Digital and Technology Entrepreneurship programme, while connecting local entrepreneurs with Techscaler’s national network of founder education, mentorship, investor connectivity and peer support.

For more information on the DaTE programme, eligibility and to apply please visit:

For more information about digital support for your business please visit Digital support | HIE.

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