Graduate Placement Programme Argyll and Bute

This programme allows small to medium-sized enterprises and social enterprises in Argyll and Bute to take on a graduate for a 12-month project. Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) will fund up to 50% of their salary, for salaries between £21,000 and £28,000.

Placements related to innovation, net zero, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) will be given priority.

Each applicant will only receive funding for one graduate placement.

The programme can help if there is an aspect of your business that would be more efficient if you brought in new skills, fresh thinking or additional resources, or if you have a project role in mind but are struggling to find the time or skills within your current workforce.

Yes, if you:

• are a small or medium sized-enterprise, as defined in sections 382 and 456 of the Companies Act 2006, or a social enterprise
• are based in the Argyll and Bute area
• meet HIE’s fair work conditions for grant support - you can read about this on the HIE website

Enterprises should have a have a defined and deliverable 12-month project, in an innovative, net zero or STEM-related role, based in the Argyll and Bute area.

You will need to pay a salary of between £21,000 and £28,000 to the graduate.

Graduates should have graduated within the last 4 years with an HNC, although preference will be given to HND or higher qualifications.

Large enterprises and businesses or social enterprises that are located outwith the Argyll and Bute area, or from Arran and Cumbrae, are not eligible.

You'll need to pay a salary of between £21,000 and £28,000 to the graduate.

Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE) will fund up to 50% of a graduate's salary over the 12-month project. You will need to provide the rest of the salary yourself.

You'll need to pay all costs upfront, then submit a claim to receive the percentage of the graduate salary HIE has agreed to fund.

Small or medium-sized businesses and social enterprises in the Argyll and Bute area.

All projects must be completed, and claims submitted, by 31 March 2025.

Visit the HIE website for more information and to apply.