Comhairle funding helps young fisherman land new boat

About the business

Twenty-year-old John Angus Morrison, who has worked in the fishing industry for four years on local vessels, recently purchased his own boat to fish for shellfish. 

How Business Gateway has helped

On a mission to maximise the vessel’s fishing potential, John Angus approached Business Gateway for support to get his new business off to the strongest start possible.  

John Angus accessed a range of Business Gateway start-up support, including one-to-one support from a dedicated business adviser, as well as advice on his business plan.  

Through Business Gateway, John Angus accessed a loan from the Comhairle’s Fisheries Investment Scheme, which is supported by the Western Isles Fishermen’s Association and administered by the local Business Gateway team.  The scheme aims to create and retain employment in the Outer Hebrides by encouraging business development in the fisheries sector. It provides loans of up to £100,000 to assist with the purchase of new fishing vessels and gear.   

The fishing industry is a key export sector of the Outer Hebrides economy, providing valuable jobs and giving young people the opportunity to live and work across the islands. The Comhairle recognises the importance of the sector to the local economy and has been supporting the industry for over 30 years. The Fisheries Investment Scheme has been especially successful in encouraging young fishers like John Angus into first time vessel ownership. 

John Angus also received grant funding from the Outer Hebrides Young Enterprise Support Scheme (OHYESS), which is funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise and delivered by Business Gateway. The funding support has helped John Angus buy vital equipment to maximise the vessel’s fishing potential.   

John Angus Morrison said: “I had plenty of industry experience under my belt but needed the practical and financial support to make my fishing boat a success in the local community. Business Gateway has been an excellent support over the last year and signposted me to essential funding. I can’t thank them enough for all their support.”