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.
Fort William, the outdoor capital of the UK, continues to set an example in community pride and environmental action. Thanks to a successful partnership between Keep Britain Tidy and the BID Fort William, a new cigarette waste reduction project has helped make the town cleaner, more welcoming, and more sustainable.
We will be attending the Partnering for Progress – Lochaber Community Event on Wednesday 12th November at The Nevis Centre, joining local partners and community organisations in a day focused on collaboration and regeneration. As part of the event, BID Fort William will be showcasing the shortlisted mural designs for the upcoming town centre art […]
Earlier this year, Fort William BID received ten fantastic mural proposals from artists across the Highlands and beyond – each offering a creative take on what makes our town unique. After an initial round of feedback from the community, local businesses, property owners, tenants, and the BID Board, three designs have been shortlisted. Now, we’d […]
