The College

We created the Desk in October 2009 as a response from rural business and communities. Since then we have deployed a team of staff with a broad spectrum of skills on a range of development projects.

Here's a few of examples of how we have assisted businesses in business development:

Example 1. In Edinburgh, a community group wanted to establish a training programme for organic gardening. Using our bespoke Qualifications Development Guide, they developed a jointly certificated training programme with Oatridge College and they have now delivered their programme to over 60 people.

Example 3. A social enterprise based in Falkirk wanted to develop new services for the community. Oatridge College provided our grant finding expert to spot all relevant opportunities for the charity to apply for external funding.

Example 2.  For a local estate, our Countryside Management team carried out an extensive access survey. This assessment has enabled the estate to develop a more effective visitor management programme and to make improvements to the visitor experience. 

We have extensive links with other Colleges and Universities

The 2KT project  http://www.2kt.org.uk/index.html has created opportunity for Oatridge College to support SMEs with up to £5000 worth of academic time for specific projects, through the Innovation Fund.   Examples of the 2KT information pamphlets are available through the links below.

Oatridge College is a specialist landbased college which offers a range of services to businesses and rural communities.  See what we offer  Business Toolkit

Russell ParkerRussell Parker - Business Development Executive, Rural Business and Communities Desk   For an initial discussion contact Russell on 01506 864 800 or (M) 0778 99 124 36  or by email at  rparker@oatridge.ac.uk