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A pilot
scheme giving public sector workers the opportunity to pursue sound business
ideas.
Making entrepreneurial activity a real possibility
while retaining job security is a significant opportunity for people living
and working
in rural communities.
A pilot scheme giving
public sector workers the opportunity to pursue sound business ideas was
launched today by Deputy Minister for Enterprise Allan Wilson.
The scheme will be run by Western Isles Council and will guarantee employees
up to one year’s unpaid leave to test out their business idea allowing them
to return to their post if their business proves to be non-viable.
Attending the Convention of Highlands and Islands Convention in Stornoway,
Allan Wilson spoke of the opportunities the pilot will bring. He said:
“I am pleased to launch the Public Sector Entrepreneur pilot which will open
the door for public sector workers to pursue great business ideas.
“Making entrepreneurial activity a real possibility while retaining job
security is a significant opportunity for people living and working in rural
communities.
“I look forward to seeing the business plans that evolve from this pilot
over the next two years and I encourage public sector workers with good
proposals to plant the business seed and see what can grow.”
Alex MacDonald, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles
Council) said:
“The Comhairle welcomes the pilot initiative in partnership with the
Scottish Executive. This will give any member of our staff, who may be
eligible to participate, the opportunity to put their enterprising ideas
into practice, to further develop these ideas within the private sector -
and to play their part in the future of the Outer Hebrides economy”
NOTES:
1. Western Isles Council (WIC) will run the Public Sector Entrepreneur pilot
over the next two years, launching this month.
2. The Scottish Executive will fund WIC up to £100,000 over the two year
life of the pilot. Funding will cover expenses such as recruitment, training
and administration costs.
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