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.
Nestled on Fort William’s High Street, The Old Deli Gifts is a proud supporter of our Shop Local campaign and a standout independent retailer. The shop showcases a thoughtfully curated collection of premium brands including:
Pop in and discover what’s new at The Old Deli Gifts this month and get your Christmas presents!
A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined area where businesses work together to invest in local improvements that they have identified as priorities. These improvements are funded through a levy agreed by the businesses themselves and are delivered in addition to the services provided by the local authority. Across Scotland, BIDs have been used to strengthen town centres, support local economies, and create cleaner, safer, more welcoming environments for businesses, residents and visitors alike.
BID Fort William has launched two new funding schemes to support local businesses and boost town centre activity. The Property Improvement Scheme offers match funding to smarten up shopfronts and public-facing premises, while the Event Support Scheme provides financial help to develop new or existing events that attract visitors and drive local spending.
Looking to bring a burst of energy to the Highlands during the quieter months? The Highland Council’s brand-new Strategic Events Grant Fund for 2025/26 is here to help you make it happen. Backed by a £75,000 allocation from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and rubber-stamped by the Economy and Infrastructure Committee on 29 May, this […]
