Northern Innovation Hub

Progress and updates

Latest position

Progress continues across the programme, despite some challenges including:

  • staff shortages
  • delays to the Food and Drink business case
  • slower progress on the Tourism Leaders project

Key milestones

  • a revised business case for the Food and Drink Centre was approved in April 2019
  • 9 individual projects have launched and are delivering outputs
  • 4 more projects are expected to launch by the end of 2019/20
  • some programmes have been under-subscribed — we are working with contractors to increase participation

Nexus facility launch

The new Nexus facility was launched on 6 June 2019 to mark National Coworking Day. The launch event included a well-attended business breakfast and showcased the facility’s role in supporting collaboration and innovation.

Funding

  • £11 million from the UK Government as part of the City Region Deal

Project lead

  • Claire Munro, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)

Page last modified: 2 December 2025