In this early phase of #GrowthforGood, I have had the privilege of connecting with entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers to explore their ambitions, challenges, and unique approaches to success. It has been inspiring to witness the incredible quality, innovation, and ideas coming from our community, reminding us of what we could achieve by recognising our strengths and value.
I have also begun engaging with business support agencies and associations, with plans to expand this in the coming months. These organisations play a crucial role in strengthening both our collective and individual futures. A standout example is Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), a key player in fostering growth across the region.
Recently, during a discussion with a senior business figure, I asked whether she sent any of her staff to HIE’s (free!) development sessions. Her response surprised me:
“I don’t think any of our team would get much out of it. These things are a bit of a waste of time.”
Curious to see for myself if these sessions held genuine value, I attended one of HIE’s ‘Ideas for Growth’ sessions, led by Ryan Till.
The room was filled with a diverse group of participants—owners of long-established businesses, micro businesses, start-ups, and even an inventor looking to get his product to market. The early part of the session focused on inspiring fresh thinking about growth in today’s rapidly changing marketplace.
We were asked to reflect on how we consumed things twenty years ago compared to now—a reminder of how quickly the pace of change has accelerated. There was laughter when Ryan confidently asked,
“Who in the room still uses CDs, for example?”
A couple of us sheepishly raised our hands (I just like to actually own my music, alright?). The point was clear: Spotify and Apple now dominate the market, illustrating the importance of adaptability in the face of rapid change.
The session guided attendees through a business model canvas framework, covering critical areas such as products, revenue streams, customer channels, key partnerships, and overall feasibility. One of the most compelling elements was the focus on ‘Business Model Themes’—an area where businesses can unlock innovation and sustainable growth with the right strategies.
The discussion also featured real-life examples of local business success stories, highlighting how organisations have navigated challenges and embraced innovation to drive growth. These examples underscored the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability in a competitive market.
Importantly, all participants were able to apply the insights to their own circumstances, coming away with practical steps to move forward, alongside the offer of further support from HIE.
Without revealing too much, I can confidently say the session was an invaluable experience. Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for decades, I highly recommend attending future sessions. They provide practical insights and fresh perspectives to inspire action and equip businesses to meet today’s challenges with confidence.
