Highland Business Week 2024: A must-attend event for ambitious entrepreneurs and industry leaders
This September, the premier event on the Highland business calendar is making a return, and it’s an opportunity not to be missed.
Organised by Inverness Chamber of Commerce, Highland Business Week 2024 is an unparalleled occasion for networking, collaboration, and celebration – whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur or leading a global enterprise.
Scheduled from September 23-27, this annual business festival features a packed agenda, including the region’s largest business exhibition, Highland Spotlight, and the prestigious Highland Business Awards.
Highland Spotlight: Where Businesses Connect
Taking place at The Drumossie Hotel on September 24, Highland Spotlight is more than just an exhibition – it’s a platform for organisations and companies from across the region to come together to forge new partnerships and explore innovative ideas.
Last year’s event was a resounding success, attracting over 50 exhibitors and more than 300 attendees, all eager to connect and collaborate.
In 2023, Highland Spotlight introduced the exciting new Rising Stars showcase, a dedicated space for young entrepreneurs to shine. The initiative was met with such enthusiasm that it’s returning this year as a key feature of the exhibition.
One of last year’s Rising Stars, Sandie Gordon, the founder of Candles from the Croft, shares how this experience transformed her business. Initially hesitant, Sandie quickly realised the immense value of the opportunity.
“At first, I shied away from the idea,” she admits. “But when I thought about it from a business perspective, I knew I couldn’t let it pass. The connections I could make and the chance to showcase my brand on a larger scale were too valuable to ignore.”
A launchpad for success
For Sandie, Highland Spotlight was more than just an event – it was a catalyst for growth.
“The benefits were endless,” she says. “From gaining new connections to receiving invaluable feedback on my products, the event offered support at a critical stage in my business journey. It also helped me articulate my business goals more clearly and recognise the value I bring to the table.”
Her participation in the Rising Stars zone was also a personal breakthrough. “Being in a room full of established businesses made me realise that I was one of them. It gave me the confidence to move forward with what I wanted to achieve and take pride in what I had already accomplished. Highland Spotlight was a major confidence boost and a turning point for me.”
Since her debut at Highland Spotlight, Sandie’s business has continued to flourish, earning her numerous accolades and expanding her brand’s reach.
Seize the opportunity: Be a Rising Star
If you’re an emerging entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level, don’t miss the chance to be part of the Rising Stars @ Highland Spotlight this year.
Reach out to Sandra McCaughey, DYW employer engagement manager at Developing the Young Workforce Inverness & Central Highland, to discuss your participation. Email her at sandra@inverness-chamber.co.uk to learn more.
Highland Business Week 2024 is more than just an event – it’s a launchpad for the next generation of Highland business success. Mark your calendars and prepare to elevate your business to new heights!
