Scotland’s first animal health and aquaculture business accelerator programme

From March 2022, there’s a unique opportunity for all businesses connected to aquaculture or animal health to accelerate their ideas for new products, services or start-up ventures. Pathfinder Accelerator is a tried-and-tested, fully-funded opportunity for businesses, social enterprises, entrepreneurs and start-ups to accelerate their new product or business in only six months – and for the first time, their next cohort will be open specifically to those in animal health and aquaculture. The programme will be delivered alongside Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC).

If you aim to improve health, welfare or production efficiency in animal agriculture or aquaculture, support the transition to net- zero carbon agri-food systems or address public health and social inequalities then Pathfinder may be for you.

To help you execute your idea, Pathfinder delegates are coached directly by experts across a range of disciplines including new product development, innovation, business strategy, finance, investment and more. The programme includes a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style pitching session in front of real investors in a safe environment to help you prepare for just about anything in the commercial world.

Pathfinder is made possible by a partnership between Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Skillfluence, and SRUC’s centre of excellence for research and knowledge exchange in the rural and veterinary sector (RAVIC).

Who can apply?

Fully funded places are available for companies based in the Highlands and Islands region. The programme is for existing businesses, social enterprises, entrepreneurs and start-ups who have ambitions to grow by developing new products, or business models. This includes businesses developing technologies to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Pathfinder, you can expect:

Training and mentoring: group sessions, masterclasses and 1-2-1 coaching by business experts and investors across a range of disciplines.

Networking opportunities: connect with funders, investors and other key contacts; form a lifelong bond with other entrepreneurs who are on the same journey.

Accessibility: Pathfinder is delivered online for a post-COVID world. This means no travel, 24/7 access to learning content, more touchpoints with expert coaches and the ability for you to fit it into your busy schedule, no matter where you’re based.

Practical support: you can use what you learn from day one. Every programme touchpoint is designed to drive action, helping you move quickly towards your commercial goal.

How do I get involved?
To discuss your idea, email: pathfinder@skillfluence.co.uk
Or visit the HIE website to find out more or to request an application form: www.hie.co.uk/pathfinder

Apply by 18 February 2022.