Orkney Islands Council has been awarded £65,350, as part of the Scottish Government’s Pathways Fund. The Entrepreneurial Islands project is “a coaching and mentoring programme for the Orkney islands to access tailored support, building enthusiasm and encouraging new business start-ups, while assisting business funding applications.”

In total £1.08 million was awarded to projects across Scotland part of more than £1.9 million to encourage entrepreneurial skills. The Entrepreneurial Education Pathways Fund of £829,346 made up the rest of the total funding announced.

Commenting on the awards Deputy First Minister in the Scottish Government Kate Forbes said:

“This is a continuation of the Scottish Government’s drive to create one of Europe’s leading start-up economies. Existing entrepreneurs are already being supported, including by our successful Techscaler programme. Now, through these two funds, we are developing the next generation.

“I want young people and under-represented groups to be excited by the idea of going into business, to understand it’s something they can do.”