South business leaders encouraged to apply for 2025/26 Scottish Rural Leadership Programme
Businesses in the South of Scotland are being invited to apply to the 2025/26 Scottish Rural Leadership Programme.
The initiative is designed to empower rural business owners and senior leaders across Scotland with the skills, confidence and strategic insight needed to drive innovation and growth in their communities.
Run by Elevator UK, in partnership with South of Scotland Enterprise Scottish Enterprise and Highlands & Islands Enterprise, the programme provides an immersive experience that challenges participants to think differently, embrace change and lead with purpose.
With a focus on ambition, capability and commitment, the programme equips leaders to ignite their businesses and contribute meaningfully to Scotland’s rural economy.
Participants will benefit from
- Ten days attending workshops and learning journeys
- Three hours of coaching
- Ongoing peer-to-peer support
It is open to all businesses in all sectors who are based in rural location or work with rural businesses.
The programme features industry-leading facilitators including James Withers, Alison Milne, Shona Mitchell, and Andrew Cameron, and offers opportunities for networking, mentoring, and collaborative problem-solving.
These facilitators bring a wealth of experience and insight, helping participants challenge their thinking, build strategic capabilities, and lead transformational change in their businesses and communities.
For more information and to register your interest and begin your leadership journey, visit Elevator UK website.
People seeking more details can also sign up to one of the SRLP online information sessions via the same website, available on:
Applications close on 29 August 2025.
Martin Valenti, SOSE’s Director of Investment and Sustainable Enterprise, said:
“We want to establish the South as a place that embraces innovation, with businesses who can adapt to change in order to become more resilient and flourish.
“The Scottish Rural Leadership Programme is an excellent opportunity for business leaders in the South to learn these skills, for the benefit of not their businesses but the wider regional economy.
“We would encourage anyone interested to apply now.”
Rachel Ross, Chief Executive of Elevator said:
"We are thrilled to launch the next chapter of the SRLP.
“This programme is more than leadership training - it’s a catalyst for rural transformation.
“We look forward to welcoming a new cohort of visionary leaders ready to shape the future of rural Scotland."