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Island Businesses Hit by Ferry Cancellations to Get Share of £3 Million Funding
The first phase will support businesses hit by ferry disruption, with further funding to follow over the lifetime of the parliament.
- On Monday, First Minister John Swinney announced a £3 million Islands Resilience Fund to support businesses affected by ferry disruption, aiming to mitigate the "disproportionate impact" on island communities.
- Severe disruptions to CalMac's 32-strong ferry fleet earlier this year prompted the support, as a Visit Outer Hebrides survey showed 96% of island businesses faced problems.
- Applications for the fund will open midday on August 17, administered by Highlands and Islands Enterprise , which director Rachel Hunter said will help organizations "adapt, recover and continue contributing."
- Ahead of a three-day visit to the Western Isles, Swinney will meet organizations in Barra, South Uist, Grimsay, Scalpay, Lewis, and Harris, noting businesses are often "held back by circumstances outside their control."
- This initial phase forms part of a wider £10 million commitment to be delivered over the lifetime of this Parliament, establishing foundations for longer-term investment before the 2031 election.
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Scottish Government opens first £3m to support businesses hit by ferry disruption
Island businesses affected by ferry disruption will be eligible for financial support through the first phase of the £10 million Islands Resilience Fund, the Scottish Government has announced.
·Glasgow, United Kingdom
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First phase of £10 million funding announced as FM visits Western Isles
Strengthening islands resilience Financial support for island businesses affected by ferry disruption will be made available through the first phase of the £10m Islands Resilience Fund. This will provide a further £3 million in 2026-27 to help mitigate the disproportionate impact faced by people and businesses living and operating in Scotland’s islands. It builds on the £4.4 million Islands Business Resilience Fund delivered in 2025-26. The fun…
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