New programme to strengthen leadership and growth among women-led businesses
1st March 2026
HIE Impact Women will support 30 women leaders from businesses and social enterprises that have an annual turnover of at least £25,000.
Women in leadership roles in businesses across the Highlands and Islands are being encouraged to apply for a fully funded development programme aimed at boosting growth, enhancing leadership capability and building strong support networks across the region.
Launched by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) with additional funding from The Scottish Government, HIE Impact Women will support 30 women leaders from businesses and social enterprises that have an annual turnover of at least £25,000.
Over 16 weeks, participants will take part in a blend of in-person and online learning, including two residential workshops, webinars, and one‑to‑one mentoring provided by specialist contractor Skillfluence.
Programme content will cover areas such as sales and marketing, confidence and networking, finance and accounting, and digital innovation and productivity.
Experienced mentors will offer six hours of tailored support, helping participants refine goals, navigate challenges and identify new opportunities while developing a personalised growth plan.
The programme will culminate in a Dragon's Den‑style session, where participants present their business change plan to a panel of experts. Both residential workshops will be fully-funded and held in Inverness.
HIE Impact Women launches as preparations continue for the Highland Women Growth Summit in Inverness on Friday 27 February, which aims to address long-standing barriers facing women in business across the Highlands.
Rachel Hunter, director of enterprise and community support at HIE, said, "Women play a vital role in driving innovation and building resilient, successful enterprises across our region and this programme is a fantastic opportunity. It is designed to give participants the tailored support, space and confidence they need to grow their leadership impact and scale their ambitions. We strongly encourage women in leadership positions to apply and make the most of this opportunity."
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said, "Scotland cannot afford to exclude women from the opportunities of entrepreneurship.
"The Scottish Government's Pathways programme works to provide women and people from under-represented backgrounds with advice and funding to start and grow their own businesses.
“Since 2023 we've committed more than £9 million to activity under the Pathways programme. This includes support for programmes such as the HIE Impact Women Programme, closing the gender gap for businesses in the Highlands."
