Overview
Robert Gordon University (RGU) leads the Islands Entrepreneurial Network within the TalEntEd programme.
Driven by its commitment to economic, social and cultural development, RGU’s expertise in entrepreneurship enables start-ups, SMEs, and community-led enterprises to flourish. Drawing on hands-on learning, innovation, and business engagement, RGU delivers tailored programmes that foster entrepreneurial mindsets across the islands to boost growth, investment and jobs.
These include accelerator schemes, mentorship programmes, community networks, and pathways for under-represented groups.
This project is supported by funding from the UK Government and the Scottish Government through the Islands Growth Deal.
Aims
- Empowering local businesses: RGU’s entrepreneurial programmes enable start-ups and micro-enterprises to thrive, focusing on scalable opportunities and new ventures to drive economic growth
- Community-led entrepreneurship: Through mentorship, co-working, and networking, RGU fosters entrepreneurial ecosystems to build communities of innovation across Orkney, Shetland, and the Outer Hebrides.
- Inclusive enterprise growth: Designed to reach under-represented groups and diverse age ranges, RGU’s approach ensures a broad base of talent contributes to the islands’ sustainable future and inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs.
Courses
Have you ever considered increasing your earning potential through self-employment? Have you considered starting your own business as a flexible means income?
Participate in a Student Competition or Challenge to take on practical problems and tasks.
RGU Innovation events focus on equipping students, staff, alumni and others with future-relevant skills, emphasising the importance of innovation in both entrepreneurial endeavours and organisational roles.
Turn your idea into a viable business through our Startup Accelerator Programme offering training, mentorship, incubation space and opportunities for funding.
Understand the tools available to you to grow a sustainable creative business.
- Freelance Academy
- 60+ Startup Programme
TalEntEd
The TalEntEd Islands Programme is a collaborative initiative, led by Heriot-Watt University (HWU), the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), and Robert Gordon University (RGU). Supported by the Islands Growth Deal, TalEntEd works to accelerate decarbonisation, address demographic challenges, and spark sustainable innovation across Orkney, Shetland, and the Outer Hebrides. This programme is supported by up to £5.9 million of joint investment from the Scottish Government and the UK Government through the Islands Growth Deal.
By linking leading research, robust entrepreneurship pathways, and flexible work-based learning, TalEntEd ensures that local communities, businesses, and public services have the talent and technology to thrive. Each of the three partner institutions leads a dedicated project stream - yet all share a vision of creating a greener, more resilient future for Scotland’s island regions.
Key objectives
- Speed up the transition to net zero through island-focused initiatives.
- Retain and attract new talent by offering in-demand skills, education, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Empower businesses and innovators to commercialise new technologies, driving economic growth.
By harnessing each institution’s distinct strengths, the consortium ensures that new opportunities in skills development, entrepreneurship, and innovation are accessible to local residents and businesses. This united approach means that learners, entrepreneurs, and established industries across Orkney, Shetland, and the Outer Hebrides can benefit from integrated programmes that directly address decarbonisation, demographic challenges, and sustainable growth.
Project sponsors
The pan-island TalEntEd Programme is being funded with £5.9million from the UK and Scottish Governments as part of the Islands Growth Deal. The Deal has been developed by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Orkney Islands Council and Shetland Islands Council, together with public, academic, business, community and third sector partners. It aims to harness the islands’ unique assets to create world class, innovative and globally focussed industries that will help address the islands’ severe demographic challenges and strengthen the distinct and important contribution the islands make to the economic vitality and international reputation of Scotland and the United Kingdom. Find out more:
Contacts
For further information, please contact: