Business

The Cairngorms National Park is home to over 1,000 businesses, from food and drink to tourism, agriculture and construction. Whilst a number of large employers are based in the area, the majority of businesses (over 80%) employ fewer than 10 people, highlighting the importance of small and micro enterprises to the region. 

The Park Authority is working with partners to support a vibrant and sustainable business community in the Cairngorms National Park. This is delivered through a mix of direct business support, brand development, targeted grant programmes, skills development and training. This work is coordinated through a dedicated Economic Steering Group and delivered in partnership with the likes of the Cairngorms Business Partnership and GrowBiz.

The brand of the Cairngorms National Park is a key asset which local businesses can take advantage of, completely free of charge. Instantly recognisable, the brand is synonymous with sustainability, collaboration and leadership: for example, the Cairngorms is on track to become the first national park in the UK to reach net zero carbon emissions. We are proud to be part of a family of over 4,000 national parks across the globe, and would love you and your business to become part of it.

Advice and support for businesses

If you are a business - large or small - looking for advice, support or simply a network of likeminded people, there are a number of organisations that can help. From the official chamber of commerce and destination marketing organisation for the region to community-based business support, the Cairngorms National Park is here to help your business.

Cairngorms Business Partnership

The Park Authority supports the Cairngorms Business Partnership, which acts as both the local destination marketing organisation and chamber of commerce. It represents over 400 members from all corners and industries of the National Park.

Working closely together, the Park Authority and the Cairngorms Business Partnership support and advocate for businesses in the area, with the Cairngorms Business Partnership leading on:

• Representing local business interests and providing a voice for them.
• Supporting the development of businesses and the wider destination.
• Promoting the Cairngorms National Park as a destination, including running VisitCairngorms as the official visitor guide for the area.  

Cairngorms Business Partnership members benefits from the support and advice of the wider partnership, the opportunity to connect with other businesses in the area, and a listing on the VisitCairngorms website to improve visibility.

GrowBiz

The Cairngorms National Park Authority works alongside GrowBiz to provide free support to micro-businesses, enterprises and self-employed people in the National Park. GrowBiz can provide 1:1 support with an experienced enterprise facilitator, as well as networking opportunities and skills development through online learning sessions.

Business Gateway

Business Gateway Highland provides expert local business advice and practical guidance for people in the National Park. From access to webinars that can help upskill and inform to tailored, one to one support, they have a range of useful resources. Whether you’re thinking of starting a business or are already well established, the Business Gateway Highland may well be able to help. 

Cairngorms Trust

The Cairngorms Trust is a registered charity working in the Cairngorms National Park which offers vital business support to local enterprises within the Cairngorms National Park. By providing grants, advice, and resources, the Trust helps businesses thrive while promoting sustainable practices. Their initiatives aim to boost the local economy, create jobs, and preserve the natural beauty of the National Park.