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Welcome to BID Fort William

We are a not-for-profit organisation established to represent the interests of local businesses and to deliver meaningful improvements across the town for business owners, residents and visitors alike.

What is a BID?

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.

What’s On in Fort William

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.​

Shop Local 

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.

Grants Available

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.​

Featured Event

Great Scot Wine Tasting

Join Highland Liquor at their Fort William Bottle Shop as we travel to France, New Zealand, South Africa, Portugal and Spain (by the glass) with Ewen Lamont, the Scottish Sales Manager for Liberty Wines Ltd. On the night he will guide you through samples of seven different drinks including Champagne, Wine, Port and Sherry from producers or winemakers who have connections to Scotland.

Featured Business – November

The Old Deli Gifts

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:

  • Nomination
  • Steiff
  • Chlobo
  • Stoneglow
  • Notch

Pop in and discover what’s new at The Old Deli Gifts this month and get your Christmas presents!

Latest News

Stay up to date with the latest news.

Jun 10
Apply Now: Highland Council Strategic Events Grant Fund 2025/26

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 […]

May 29
Help Shape Fort William’s Future – Join the BID Board

BID Fort William is now inviting nominations for our first Board of Directors—and we’re looking for local business owners and representatives like you to get involved. If you’re passionate about the future of Fort William’s town centre, this is your opportunity to help lead meaningful projects, represent your sector, and make a difference in the […]

May 27
BID Fort William Appoints New Project Manager

  BID Fort William is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Philip as its new Project Manager. Mary brings over a decade of experience in marketing, digital communications, and project delivery. She has worked with businesses across the Highlands and beyond, helping them improve visibility, strengthen their brand, and connect with their communities. She […]

We’re here to help

Have a question about the BID, want to get involved, or need support as levy payer?

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BID Fort William
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