HIE interim chief executive sees SHIREs Awards as a chance to celebrate north resilience in the face of Covid
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THE north of Scotland has not been alone in weathering the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, though often this has come on top of already existing challenges faced by businesses in more rural areas.
However, many of our area’s businesses have risen to the challenge. Deprived of their usual markets, they have diversified into other areas, found new ways of reaching customers or made changes to their procedure which have made them more resilient and able to face the particular issues of the last 18 months.
These innovative businesses will be recognised at the Scottish Highlands and Islands Rural Economy (SHIREs) Awards with a new category for 2021, the rural Covid resilience award.
Supported by regional development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), this award will go to a business or enterprise which has responded to the pandemic as positively as possible under the circumstances, allowing it to survive and thrive in what has been such a difficult and challenging time.
The winner will have demonstrated a level of adaptability in its business model, evolving to meet the unique circumstances and dealing with the impact of Covid-19.
Carroll Buxton, interim chief executive at HIE, said: “We have been really impressed with the way that businesses, communities and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands have adapted, diversified and responded during a very challenging year and a half.
“We have seen businesses including some of the hardest hit, show remarkable resilience in the face of Covid-19. Many have been developing and pursuing new opportunities that will create jobs while moving to a more sustainable and low carbon future especially in our islands and rural mainland areas.
“We are delighted to be able to support the upcoming Scottish Highlands and Islands Rural Economy Awards by sponsoring the rural Covid resilience award, recognising the diversifications and adaptations made by businesses during Covid19.”
The 2021 SHIREs Awards will take place in virtual form on Thursday, November 18.
Entries for all categories close at midnight on Saturday, October 16.
