Deadline Date: January 08, 2026
The Caithness Business Fund is offering a graduate placement scheme designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises in the Caithness and North Sutherland area.
The scheme prioritizes placements in growth sectors such as energy, food and drink, space, and tourism, as well as areas with recognized skills shortages. It focuses on providing practical, graduate-level experience while supporting local businesses to develop their workforce capacity and capabilities. The graduate placements must be 24 months in duration and in a graduate-level role, requiring a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with preference given to graduates who have qualified within the last five years. The scheme will fund up to 70% of salary costs for two years, excluding Employer NI and pension contributions, with a supported salary range of £25,000 to £32,000. Additional support of up to £1,250 per annum is available for Continuing Professional Development, preferably through local training providers such as UHI North, West and Hebrides.
Eligible applicants must be SMEs, including sole traders, partnerships, or limited companies, based in the Caithness and North Sutherland area. Applicants should demonstrate financial viability, provide evidence of owner investment, and show that the proposed placement contributes to business growth. Applications will not be considered for very small lifestyle or hobby businesses or for capital equipment purchases unless growth or additionality is demonstrated.
Applicants are required to submit supporting documents, including the latest accounts, insurance certificates, relevant Health & Safety documentation, and any other materials that strengthen the application.
For more information, visit Caithness Business Fund.
