A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area in which businesses work together and invest collectively in local improvements. It gives business owners a stronger voice, more influence, and the ability to shape decisions that affect their trading environment.
Across Scotland and the wider UK, BIDs have already helped hundreds of towns and city centres unlock new potential, attract more visitors, and enhance the everyday experience for businesses and communities alike.
From festive lights and family days to market weekends and cultural celebrations, we aim to fund and coordinate events that bring people together and boost the local economy year-round.
Our new voucher scheme makes it easy to give the gift of local shopping while supporting businesses right here in town. By choosing to spend with independent retailers and service providers, every pound stays in Fort William, helping to create jobs, strengthen businesses, and sustain a vibrant town centre.
We’re committed to creating a town centre that businesses and the community can be proud of. We aim to create a place that attracts footfall, encourages longer visits, and supports pride of place.
We are delighted to announce that local artist Mark Faulkner’s design, Our Special Lochaber Oaks, has been selected for the new High Street mural. The project celebrates Fort William’s heritage and will include creative workshops with local primary schools and Room 13.
Join our volunteer programme and help create visible improvements across the town. Whether you have a project idea or simply want to offer your time and skills, we provide structure, support, and recognition. Volunteers receive Shop Local vouchers and approved expenses, ensuring your contribution is valued while supporting local businesses. Step forward and help strengthen our community – your actions matter!
Since 2024, we’ve funded just under £7,000 in business grants for levy-paying businesses, including Property Improvement Grants and Event Grants. This is one of the valuable benefits of being a levy payer.
Overview This winter, 3 Wise Monkeys Climbing ran a six‑round indoor climbing competition series, bringing together climbers of all ages and abilities from across our local community. The series built on the success of previous years while introducing meaningful improvements in inclusivity, route quality, and event promotion. Thanks to funding support from BID Fort William, […]
BID Fort William is proud to continue supporting local businesses through its Property Improvement Grant scheme, designed to help levy payers invest in the visual and structural enhancement of their premises. These improvements not only uplift individual properties but also contribute to a more vibrant, welcoming, and professional business environment across Fort William. The following […]
BID Fort William’s Property Improvement Grant continues to support businesses across the town centre by helping them invest in their premises and enhance the look and feel of Fort William. One of the most recent businesses to benefit from the scheme is Legend of Arcade, a popular local gaming venue keen to refresh and modernise […]
The Ben Nevis Guest House recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to replace and upgrade the fencing surrounding their car park and gardens. The previous fence, while functional, had not been built to withstand the unique local weather conditions and required frequent maintenance.
Comms West, a local internet service provider based in the Ben Nevis Industrial Estate, recently applied for a Property Improvement Grant to enhance the exterior of their new premises.
Overview This winter, 3 Wise Monkeys Climbing ran a six‑round indoor climbing competition series, bringing together climbers of all ages and abilities from across our local community. The series built on the success of previous years while introducing meaningful improvements in inclusivity, route quality, and event promotion. Thanks to funding support from BID Fort William, […]
BID Fort William is proud to continue supporting local businesses through its Property Improvement Grant scheme, designed to help levy payers invest in the visual and structural enhancement of their premises. These improvements not only uplift individual properties but also contribute to a more vibrant, welcoming, and professional business environment across Fort William. The following […]
ID Fort William is pleased to welcome Marie McMillan, Chief Officer at Voluntary Action Lochaber, as a new Director of the BID. Marie brings significant experience from the third sector and has strong working relationships across community organisations, charities, public bodies and local partners throughout Lochaber. A Strong Background in Partnership Working Through her role […]
