A cohort of 56 rural business leaders from across Scotland has been selected to take part in a unique initiative which aims to foster innovation, growth and resiliency across the country’s rural economy.
The Scottish Rural Leadership Programme, a unique collaboration between Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and South of Scotland Enterprise is being delivered by business support organisation Elevator, recognised for its expertise in supporting start-ups and scaling businesses.
As businesses of all sectors face unprecedented financial and operational challenges, it is imperative that Scotland’s rural leaders are equipped with the skills to embrace rapid change and future-proof their businesses. The Scottish Rural Leadership Programme is designed specifically to support this vital cog in Scotland’s economy, arming participants with the confidence and tools to innovate, adapt and thrive.
As Scotland’s leading private sector business support organisation, Elevator is dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurs, inventors, disruptors, game changers and business leaders of today and tomorrow. Scottish Enterprise, in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and South of Scotland Enterprise, have designed an inspiring Rural Leadership Programme which will work with rural businesses across Scotland, capitalising on the strengths and connections that underpin a dynamic rural economy and pivot Scotland’s rural businesses into a new era of world leading innovation and business growth.
Participants will benefit not only from the workshops, 1-2-1 coaching and peer support provided, but also in joining a now over 700-strong network of graduates.
The Programme marked its launch with a Welcome Conference on October 3rd, held at Perth Racecourse, where delegates met for the first time to take part in collaborative networking and learning sessions.
Julian Pace, Director of Rural Operations at Scottish Enterprise, commented: “It’s wonderful to welcome 56 new Rural Leaders to the existing Scottish Rural Leadership network of over 800. Once again Scottish Enterprise is pleased to be working with our partners of Elevator, South of Scotland Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Most of all we look forward to working with the cohort to encourage growth and positive change in Rural Scotland.”
Rachel Ross, Strengthening Communities Director for Elevator, added: “We were delighted to officially kick-start this year’s programme at our Welcome Conference. I have no doubt that our cohort will see huge benefits from working together to share insights, solve problems and take much-needed time to reflect on their business’s growth plans.
“Scotland’s rural sector is incredibly diverse, spanning many industries – this is the programme’s superpower. We harness this collective knowledge to bolster rural growth, influence and change from the ground up, benefiting individuals, communities and the country as a whole.”
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