TalEntEd Islands Programme
The TalEntEd Islands Programme is a collaborative initiative jointly led by the University of the Highlands and Islands, Heriot-Watt University and Robert Gordon University.
TalEntEd works to accelerate decarbonisation, address demographic challenges, and spark sustainable innovation across the Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland. The 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.
Our aim and our work
By linking leading research, professional 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 that are tailored to the needs of the islands
- Empower businesses and innovators to commercialise new technologies, driving economic growth
- Create green jobs
By harnessing each institution’s distinct strengths, the consortium ensures that new opportunities in skills development, entrepreneurship and innovation are accessible to local residents, businesses, public and third sector organisations. This united approach means that learners, entrepreneurs, and established industries across the Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland can benefit from integrated programmes that directly address decarbonisation, demographic challenges, and sustainable growth.
Project governance
As lead, the University of the Highlands and Islands oversees the delivery of the TalEntEd Islands Programme, reporting as required to the Islands Deal Programme Board and Joint Committee. Our Partnership Programme Board includes representatives from the three university partners, three islands councils and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and meets quarterly.
TalEntEd activity is focussed around three work packages
Innovative Islands Work-Based Learning
Led by University of the Highlands and Islands, partners with local industries to design and pilot innovative work-based learning pathways across schools, further and higher education–specifically tailored to the needs of island communities. With a focus on renewable energy, sustainable development, and allied health professions, the programme enables students to gain hands-on experience and earn qualifications without leaving their islands, helping to build a strong, locally based pipeline of skilled workers to meet current and future demands.
Islands Entrepreneurial Network (IEN)
Led by Robert Gordon University, delivers a suite of programmes aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship and building new ventures, while supporting existing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From a start-up accelerator competition to innovation challenges, Robert Gordon University’s goal is to energise the islands’ economy and empower communities–especially those from under-represented groups–to launch viable enterprises.
Islands Innovation and Commercialisation programme
Led by Heriot-Watt University, focuses on turning research breakthroughs into market-ready products and services. Through proof-of-concept grants and close collaboration with industry, Heriot-Watt University helps businesses refine their ideas and access global networks, ensuring that island-based innovation can compete at an international level.
Contact us
Want to learn more? Contact us for partnership and funding opportunities
Email: talented@uhi.ac.uk
